Shen's Journey

Summer's Ending

2011-08-31T10:06:00.005-07:00

What a fast summer this has been! After a brutally cold winter, and a short, very wet spring, we hit summer hard. Shen had a great summer. First, he went with the Brewer family to Florida (while mommy and daddy spent their 10th anniversary in the Tetons). Then, the family went on an Alaskan Cruise, where Shen saw a Lumberjack show, 11 whales (both Orca and Humpback), panned for gold, and got to pet some sled dog puppies. Once back from Alaska, he went to soccer camp for a week and had a GREAT TIME (Please see the attached picture).
During the entire summer, we realized that Shen's hearing had gotten worse, and sure enough, he had to have the tubes re-inserted. So, in early August and just prior to school starting (August 15 - really early), he had tubes inserted in his ears. You can see the attached picture as he was leaving the hospital that morning.
School has started, homework has started, and the temperatures are falling. Life is Great!!
Love,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Summer's Ending

2011-08-31T10:06:00.003-07:00

Summer's Ending

2011-08-31T10:06:00.001-07:00

Shen's First Campout & Father's Day 2011

2011-06-27T06:36:00.000-07:00

Shen and daddy recently went on a Father/Son campout with the men and their sons from our church, The Chapel. There were about 12 dads and their sons, and we had a great time. We had a bonfire, roasted smores, ate a great dinner together, and Shen even got to go on his first kayak ride. Attached is a picture of Shen in the Kayak. It was a little dark but he LOVED the kayak ride. And, he and daddy had a great time on the campout!!
On Father's Day, Connor, Shen and Jodie gave dad a great day!! But, the highlight was watching Connor and Shen eat the colored frosting on the monster chocolate chip cookie they bought me. To see how much fun we all had, note the picture of the boys sticking out their tongues to record for posterity!! A GREAT Father's Day!!

Shen's First Baby Tooth & Kung Fu Panda 2

2011-06-27T06:31:00.000-07:00

Two big events for Shen this past month: He lost his first baby tooth, and the tooth fairy brought him $5 (I 'think' that is only for the first tooth). My, how inflation has happened. Daddy remembers getting a dime for his baby teeth! You can see the picture of the big boy holding his tooth in his palm, and also smiling with the tooth missing.
Also, Shen was VERY excited to see Kung Fu Panda 2 in 3D!! As we exited the theater, the Panda was waiting, so we got a picture of the Panda with Shen.
Enjoy!!

Shen's First Organizaed Sport

2011-06-27T06:22:00.000-07:00

This past Spring, Shen got very involved in sport for the first time. He had a great time, and did very well. He learned ball handling skills of dribbling and passing, and scored several times throughout the season. All in all, he did really well, and had a great time. Jodie and I were REALLY proud of him, how he connected with his teammates, how he supported them when he may not have been on the field, and how he celebrated their successes on the field. The highlight (for daddy) was arriving at O'Hare one day late from a speaking engagement, getting home and, while still wearing his suit, saw Shen score his first goal ever. Daddy raised his arms in triumph, and Shen wanted to know why daddy raised his arms like that :). A GREAT Experience for Shen!!! Here are a couple of pictures to celebrate the beginning of sport in Shen's life. In the 2nd picture, Shen is # 25!

Star of the Week

2011-01-08T13:25:00.000-08:00

This is big week coming up for Shen! although i haven't blogged in awhile, i feel it's important to get this one in. Each week a student in Shen's Kindergarten class is named Star of the Week. Mommy has worked VERY hard with Shen on getting his poster done. The poster has some of Shen's writings as well as photos showing him in China and then with his Forever Family.
He is so excited to have this poster done, and to be able to show it to his little friends at school. I am going to attach a photo of his poster when we get it finished.
Each day, he gets to take something to school for Show 'N Tell. On Tuesday, he took Buzz Lightyear - his favorite toy "to infinity and beyond." On Wednesday, he took Carrot, his stuffed animal, bunny, that is special because mommy surprised him with bunny last year. He sleeps with Carrot every night, and loves the bunny. On Thursday, he took his Lego Truck, that he put together all by himself (with only a little help from big brother, Connor). He is so good at building things!!
Love to all,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Shen is a U.S. Citizen

2010-08-28T06:20:00.000-07:00

August 27, 2010, will always be a big day for Shen and our entire family! On this day, daddy took an oath on Shen's behalf, citing that, yes, he was physically born in China, but that all allegiances are now to the United States of America! In the oath is that Shen will defend the United States, and even bear arms to do so. It was 'chilling' and heart-warming at the same time, to accept that responsibility for Shen.
Just imagine that it is one week shy of 2 years ago, that daddy ventured to China to pick him up. And, now, he is a Citizen of the United States. What a great country we live in, and thanks to God for all the Blessings He has bestowed on our family.
I will blog in the near future to summarize all the things that we have done this summer, and I'll add some pictures of Shen from the all the activities.
Love to you all,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Shen and Benny

2010-05-03T20:37:00.001-07:00

It has been so long since we have posted but we have made a few posts on our Facebook page. Daddy is in Seattle today and just felt like putting a picture of Shen with one of his two favorite cats, Benny. Benny is a Himalayan that just likes to cuddle (on HIS terms). In this picture, you can see that Benny has cuddled up to Shen and seems very comfortable.
We have had a great winter and Shen is growing so rapidly. It was cold, with a lot of snow, but we have survived, and are healthy, happy and enjoying the warmer weather of the Spring.
We love you and we will try to continue posting occasionally.
Love,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Daddy's Birthday and Thanksgiving

2009-12-04T16:52:00.000-08:00

Sorry it's been awhile since we have blogged. Daddy's been traveling and we went to the North Carolina coast with our cousins, the Lauffer's, for Thanksgiving. Attached is the birthday party that mommy, Connor and Shen had for daddy. It was perfect, especially given that daddy doesn't like counting birthdays a whole lot anymore....
Thanksgiving was truly wonderful. Shen got to meet his cousins for the first time, and he especially got to connect with Lily, their daughter, aged 7, who they adopted from China, several years ago. We played on the beach, swam in the ocean (although it was pretty chilly), toured a small town, toured the USS North Carolina Battleship (Shen and Connor REALLY loved that), and generally had some incredible fellowship on an incredible holiday. We are all so thankful for everything that God has bestowed upon us. And, we are especially thankful for all of you.
Just an FYI....we will be updating this more sporadically as time goes on. However, we have begun a Facebook account under daddy's name, so please visit us there and stay in touch.
May God Bless you and Keep you!!
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

This Past Halloween

2009-11-06T14:41:00.000-08:00

Although we are a week late in getting this on the blog, it is still worth telling! Last week's Halloween weekend was an incredible amount of fun for our entire family. It started out with Friday night, when Connor and Shen carved their own pumpkin for the holiday festivities the next night. You can the photo of the boys in the garage and big brother showing little brother how to carve a pumpkin.
Halloween began in Algonquin on Saturday at 3:00pm. Shen was VERY excited to be Optimus Prime from Transformers. In fact, he couldn't wait to get his costume on. You can see Shen and Mommy posing on the front porch before he and daddy went trick or treating. Mommy stayed behind and had a fire pit in our driveway, handing out candy to all the halloweeners, while Connor walked with daddy and Shen a little, and then joined his buddy Armin for teeenage trick or treats :).
The boys made one serious haul of candy. In fact, we have already thrown it out, explaining to Shen that it just won't keep that long :)
Sunday, while it is supposed to be a day of rest, especially AFTER Halloween, was not for Shen. He was still so excited to be Optimus Prime that he wore it to Wal Mart so he could show off to people. Note the picture in the middle of Wal Mart! People loved seeing him dressed up and several said, Hi Optimus, or Look, there's Optimus Prime!! It was a great weekend and wonderful family time!!
We hope all of you are well!
Love,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Shen's 5th Birthday!!

2009-10-25T18:46:00.000-07:00

What a great day! Our little man turned 5 years old today and we think he had one seriously great day! He awoke this morning, and immediately was asked, How old are you? With a huge smile, he held up all five fingers of one hand and said, "FIVE!"
We had a low-keyed party with our good friends, the Wards, and Shen shared his birthday cake with everyone. The birthday boy made out with some great presents too. He got a "Henry" and "James", for his Thomas train set, as well as the Sotor bridge. He also got a big coloring book from Grandma and Grandpa, as well as a Kindergarten learning book, a race car kit from big brother (Connor), some new clothes, and a Holloween costume of "Optimus Prime" from the Transformers. But, the real treat for Shen was Mommy's idea of a Smart Cycle. It hooks up to the TV and he can bicycle away, while learning words, coordination, etc. It's pretty cool!! In fact, he rode it for an hour-and-a-half this afternoon after receiving it.
We took Connor to his rehearsal for his big Chorus Concert tomorrow night!
All in all, a pretty incredible day, and we are just incredibly for God's unbelievable favor on us by giving us Shen. This past 13 months has been life-changing for all of us.
All our love,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen (all 5 years of him)

A Great Fall Weekend

2009-10-18T06:34:00.000-07:00

This past week has been a full one! But, over the weekend, Shen has been able to get some great playtime in during the aweseom fall activities held in our community. He got to experience two differenct activities, one a Fall Harvest Festival in Alonguin and the other a fall celebration held at the First Baptist Church in Crystal Lake. At the Church, Shen played all kinds of games but he LOVED sitting in a real fire engine. You can see how much fun he had in the pictures.
Then, we went to the Algonquin Fall Festival and, again, he played games and made a "haul" in prizes. But, the most fun that Shen had at the Fall Festival was playing on the big bounce game where he raced people, large and small, from start to finish. He didn't want to stop and, by the end of the afternoon, he was exhausted.
Summer sure went fast but Shen is now asking how long before it snows....Needless to say, mommy, daddy and Connor are not in a big rush for snow!!!!
We hope all of you are well!
God Bless,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Richardson Farm - Year 2

2009-10-09T13:42:00.000-07:00

Recently, Connor, Shen and daddy, along with our neighbor, Colin Ward, went to the world's largest corn maze, at Richarson Farms. It is over 11 1/2 miles of corn maze. You can go back to October, 2008, to see our pictures from last year. This year was a beautiful day, with the exception that it had rained for several consecutive days. Thus, the corn field was VERY muddy. Connor even slipped once and fell, but we all had great laughs!!
We had a great time as you can see from the pictures. We spent about an hour in the muddy maze, then in the petting zoo, the slides and go carts. You can see Shen hanging on to one of the gliders and Colin is pushing Shen in the go-cart.
We hope you enjoy the pictures and we pray that all of you are well.
Love,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Final Social Worker Visit & Johnny Appleseed

2009-09-28T16:14:00.000-07:00

We have certainly had a lot going on the last few days!! Today was a big, big day for the Groppel household. Our social worker, Amy Trotter, whom we love, did her final review of our home and Shen's progress. She gave us the great news that we are done with the adoption "process." Can I hear a big 'YIPPPEEE!" through the land??!! As we were going through this last interview, mommy and daddy actually broke down a couple of times because we were able to reflect on the past year and what it has been like with this little man in our home. It was a great experience and we are so thankful that we had Amy, our first social worker Pam Gaston (who retired during the process - it was that long - just kidding...), for Sunnyridge Family Center in Illinois and for Harrah's International Mission. Harrah's was our adoption service and they actually went out of business this past summer.
This past weekend we went to the Johnny Appleseed Festival (which we went to one year ago - you can see pictures back in the blog). I have included some pictures. Shen went pumpking bowling and got a strike, then received a little pumpkin for his achievement. He petted some animals; you can see him with the sheep. He rode the tractor barrel train and he also rode his first horse. I'm not sure there is a future cowboy but he did seem pretty comfortable for his first time in the saddle.
We hope and pray that all of you are well.
Love,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Mommy, Connor and Shen - One Year Anniversary

2009-09-18T17:59:00.000-07:00

Hello Friends! Today is a big day for our household! It was one year ago today at 5:30 in the afternoon that Shan and daddy pulled into the driveway on their trip from China. It was at that moment when Shen met his FOREVER mommy and big brother.
The past year has gone really fast; so fast in fact that it's hard to imagine Shen has been with us for a whole year. He is just such a big part of our family and it feels like he has always been with us. Without doubt, God created this relationship within our family. Wa feel truly blessed and are honored to share this moment with all of you!
God Bless You!
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Gotcha Day - ONE YEAR ANNIVEERSARY

2009-09-09T13:01:00.000-07:00

None of us will EVER forget September 8, 2008!! That was the day that God Blessed our family with Shen! If you have an inkling, go back to those two weeks. Start with September 5, the day that Jack left Jodie and Connor at 5:30 AM, and went to Guanzhou, China, via Los Angeles and Tokyo.
Gotcha Day was the afternoon of September 8, a day that Jack will NEVER forget. The next 10 days were almost a blur; they went so fast. The next VERY important day was September 18, when about 5:30 in the afternoon in Algonquin, Illinois, that Shen met his forever family in total. Daddy and his new little 3-year-old had flown from Guanzhou to Tokyo on a 5 hour flight, had a 5 hour layover in Tokyo, and then a 12-hour flight from Tokyo to Chicago. Customs could have been a nightmare, but American Airlines came to the rescue and helped expedite his Vias processing. In any case, Shen had Mommy, Daddy and Connor all together. He had spoken to them twice each day, but this was REAL contact!
I think the best words come in pictures so I am attaching two pictures that sort of speak for themselves of Shen's growth (and LOVE of life) over the past year. The first is one of Shen and his big brother Connor on our vacation, laying on the bed, just sort of connecting. The other is of the "big ham" himself, with daddy's sunglasses on. Enjoy!!
Love,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Labor Day Weekend

2009-09-07T18:29:00.000-07:00

This was an absolutley beautiful weekend here in the Chicago area. Shen enjoyed Labor Day weekend but our goal was to take care of mom. Jodie had surgery on Friday and came home from the hospital on Sunday, so Shen and dad got to take care of mom the past few days. Mommy is recovering well and Shen got to have some great fun with some of his friends. On Friday, Danya Dirks took care of Shen with pre-school and took him to their house for the rest of the day where he played all day long with various relatives and friends of the Dirks'. Then, on Saturday, our neighbors, the Wards, took Shen to a farm not too far away and they all picked apples, raspberries, and got to spend time in the animal farm and the Merry-Go-Round. Mommy is still on the mend so we plan to continue taking care of her over the next few weeks.
We hope and pray that all of you had a wonderful Labor Day Weekend.
Love,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

First Day of School

2009-09-04T08:32:00.000-07:00

It is REALLY hard to imagine that almost one year ago, we left to get Shen. He knew not a word of English, hated the moment he was put into Jack's arms, and was literally foreign to anything about American culture. And, here it is, he starts his first day of school.
There is great news to share. Because his is a special needs child, Shen was tested for special education. Not surprising to his very proud parents, Shen passed all five areas of special education testing. So, he does not require any true special education classes. He does, however, qualify for "at risk" education to get him started in a classroom. This means that, since he has only been in the U.S. for less that a year, the teachers want to slowly introduce him to the structure of classess, how learning will take place, as well as the socialization required to work with other students. In other words, it's ALL good!
I am attaching some pictures to show his first day. You can see him waving good-bye. He was so excited to get on the school bus and wear his 'Thomas the Train' backpack. We think it made him feel like his big brother, Connor, because when he got home from school, he laid his backpack right next to Connor's at the front door. You can see the school bus taking off and then him arriving back at our house. His bus driver, Roxanne (Joseph picks him up) is helping off the bus.
He truly loves school and seems to be a really happy little boy!! We are so proud of him.
Love,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Weekend in Downtown Chicago

2009-08-29T06:50:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, we had a visit from our first cousins, Tim and Heather Ryan, and their two little children, Henry and Gracie. We had a wonderful weekend, and Shen really enjoyed meeting his little cousins.
We picked them up at the airport on Friday and went to the Shedd Aquarium for the afternoon. Then, on Saturday, we went to the Lego Store (Connor and Shen LOVED the Lego store) and got some fun lego "stuff." And, then it was off to Navy Pier for lunch and short afternoon on the Ferris Wheel and watching some of the entertainment. Combine all that with a little swimming at the hotel, dinner Saturday night at the Cheesecake Factory, and watching the Navy Pier Fireworks from our hotel room, it was an INCREDIBLE weekend. In fact, Shen has said many times this past week, "I miss Chicago!"
Here are some pictures from the weekend. Enjoy!
Love,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Some Vacation Pictures

2009-08-13T10:24:00.000-07:00

Well, the family is still in recovery mode from our vacation. You know the routine...we have to recover from all the fun we had on vacation. However, it's all good. Jodie's sunburn is totally healed, Connor is on vacation this week with his dad in Wisconsin, Jack is back to traveling quite a bit, and Shen is having fun playing with Armin next door and has gotten very attached to the television show, Transformers. It is so funny to hear him mimic the TV characters.
I am attaching some pictures of Shen (and some of his new friends) from our vacation at Beaches. You will see Shen learning from GROVER at Camp Sesame, then helping ERNIE find all his rubber duckies, and finally getting a hug from ELMO. It was an awesome trip and we have already discussed that it would be go back again sometime soon. I'll send more pictures from the vacation on the next blog.
Enjoy the photos!!
Love,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Returning from Vacation

2009-08-01T18:39:00.000-07:00

We arrived yesterday from our week vacation at Beaches! It was truly incredible. Jodie felt it was the best vacation she had ever had, Connor loved the snorkeling and parasailing, Shen was amazed by all the Sesame Street characters, and Jack had a wonderful time just being with family!!
We will post some pictures from the vacation over the next few weeks (as we get them downloaded from the new camera). In the meantime, we thought you would like to see the two boys leading the two adults through the Miami airport on our layover. You will note that they are oblivious to anyone behind them; they are just on the move!
The other picture we just loved....where Shen "seems" to be reading the emergency information from the seat pocket in front of him.
We will blog soon with more of the vacation and more pictures!
Love,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

A U.S. Passport

2009-07-23T18:14:00.000-07:00

Well, this has been one COOL week. As our family prepares for a much-needed vacation, we just received notice that Shen now has a U.S. Passport!!! Woo-hoo!!!
This has truly been a process that we have found incredible...From all the paperwork in getting the adoption process started (begun in late 2005), to getting our log-in date in September, 2006, to painting the room pink (thinking God had planned a girl for us), to deciding in April/May, 2008, to look at children identified as special needs (we should have been the ones with special needs), to writing a letter of intent on May 20, 2008 that we wanted Shen, to getting a call on our vacation in San Antonio during the last week of July that we had our travel authorization, to getting him on September 8, 2008, and then going through all the paperwork for the Re-Adopt process in the state judicial system, to now having a U.S. Passport. WOW!!
It has been a labor of love the entire time, and it is a privilege to share our journey with Shen, with you!
Here is a picture of little man trying to use chopsticks at our favorite sushi restaurant. Enjoy!!
We will blog again sometime late next week!
Love to you all,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Mid July

2009-07-15T16:39:00.001-07:00

Hello everyone,
All continues to move forward in Shen's life and our life with Shen. Jodie has been actively involved with his future school and teachers to ensure a good and positive transition from being at home all the time with us, to a life of school and learning. Jodie and I believe he will transition well but she is doing a great job of communicating with the educators and experts in special needs children.
Connor got back from scout camp last week and has been connecting with his buddies and with Shen. In Jodie's words, the boys are doing great.
Jack is in a pretty tough season of travel right now; 19,000 miles in 2 weeks and not leaving the U.S.
Everyone is VERY excited about vacation this year and we will continue to blog as we continue through the summer.
Love to you all,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Fourth of July

2009-07-05T18:23:00.000-07:00

What a week this has been! Connor is off to scout camp, Shen saw his first fireworks in America, he went on his first bike ride (sort of), and stayed with someone else other than mommy or daddy for the first time (without getting upset)! Whew!!
Sunday school has become a real pleasure for the little man. Whereas a few months ago, he would cry like crazy when we left him in class to go to the main service, now he doesn't want to leave when we come to get him. Thank you God!! The second picture shows him playing in the sunday school classroom and he had just said to daddy that he was OK and didn't want to leave.
And, then the fourth of July, fireworks. Coming from China, we were warned in writing that he did not like loud noises, especially firworks and thunder. Well, last night, he was all over looking at the fireworks and the spectacle all around us in our neighborhood. He really seemed to enjoy the sounds and the light display.
And, then we went on our first bike ride. We got a little trailer (Note the Picture) to follow our bike and we went to Jamba Juice a couple of times over the fourth holiday. Shen really likes the Wild Strawberries at Jamba Juice.
It has been a great July 4th holiday and we just ask that God blesses all of you on this holiday weekend to celebrate our freedom!
Love,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Shen's First Babysitter

2009-07-03T16:54:00.000-07:00

The last week of June saw Shen have his first babysitter....his big brother! Connor was awesome in how he handled Shen and Shen was great in how he listened and behaved with Connor. The event was the mommy and daddy were going to an appointment and children wouldn't have been appropriate, focus and all.
The first picture you see is when Jodie and I returned from the appointment, and you can see how happy the two of them were. It was as if we didn't leave and it seemed that Shen didn't miss us at all....Praise God on that!!
The second picture is just before we left for the appointment. It's obvious that Shen is really happy to be with his big brother and isn't too worried about mommy and daddy being gone. Remember, this was the FIRST time that Shen had not been with one of us (other than Sunday School) since September 8 of last year!!!
The third picture is the two boys sharing a couple of slices of pizza..isn't that what boys do?
All in all, a very exciting time for Shen and Connor, AND for Jodie and I to feel that Shen is developing so that he can be comfortable with Connor (and hopefully other trusted people).
We hope all of you are well! God Bless!
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Father's Day

2009-06-24T11:45:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday was our family's first Father's Day with Shen. We have had wonderful Father's Day celebrations in the past with Connor but this was obviously our first with Shen. The weekend started out very bumpy with Shen being very sick all night Thursday and all night Friday, with mommy catching the bug all day on Saturday. By Saturday afternoon, Shen was feeling better, so he and daddy went to the pool for a little while to get outside. On the way home, he wanted ice cream so we got a small cone and, you can see from the picture, that he wore a little of it as we stood outside. On Sunday, Shen and daddy went to a movie, Night at the Museum 2which Shen really enjoyed. Even though he couldn't understand the historical nature of the humor, he loved the animation and the special effects.
On Monday eveing, Connor was with us and we had a little Father's Day celebration. Mom and the boys got dad a Wii-Fit playstation and a gift set of massages. Hmmmm..I wonder if there is a message being sent??? You can see the picture of dad and the two boys with this post.
We have a great week with Connor being home from school. In fact, today, Jodie and Shen watched a DVD together (Madagascar) and Connor went to see the movie UP with his buddies from next door.
We pray that all of you are well.
Love,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Mid-June and Summer Approaching

2009-06-15T08:52:00.000-07:00

With late Spring on its way out and summer approaching, Shen wants to be outside more and more. He LOVES our neighbor's sport court and playing in the yard. His favorite activity is riding his tricycle on the sport court while all is little friends try to roll balls at the tricycle (softly of course). He LOVES trying to outrun the balls as they approach. And, he's pretty good at it!
Last night, Shen and I went to our favorite Japanese restaurant (Kaminari) for take-out. He had Janpanese soda and received a sliced apple that he "attacked" with chopsticks. You can see from the photo that he definitely has a knack for eating that way.
All is well on our end! We pray that all is well for you and that you are enjoying this wonderful time of year with outside activities and friends.
Love,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Near the End of Spring

2009-06-09T17:02:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone,
Sorry we haven't blogged in awhile, but it has been a difficult season for the Groppel household. I don't really want to bore you with details but, for the record, travel has been pretty hectic over the past couple of months. My partner, Jim, has had to have some urgent (but not life threatening) surgery. So, it's been very busy at our company with a lot of training which puts me on the road a lot. Jodie, Connor and Shen are hanging in there but it will be nice when we get a breather again.
Shen seems to be enjoying the late Spring weather, with the exception of a lot of rain. He doesn't like it when he can't go outside and play on the swingset or on our neighbor's sport court. However, he has been a trooper to go watch his big brother play Little League Baseball. Attached with this post is a photo of the little man with big brother at one of his games. Connor was preparing to bat and came out of the dugout to say HI to Shen. Shen asked, "What's that?" as he pointed to Connor's helmet. Connor put the helmet on Shen and I HAD to take the attached photo.
We hope you are enjoying the end of Spring as we approach Summer. I'll try to post a little sooner next time.
Love,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

First Memorial Day

2009-05-25T15:37:00.000-07:00

Today Shen got to experience his first Memorial Day holiday. We began in great form by going to the Memorial Day Parade in Algonquin where he got to see big brother, Connor, march in the Parade with his Boy Scout troop!
You can see the little man in the first picture as he is watching the police car go by with all the lights on. In the background you can see some of the military veterans approaching him and one of them walked right over to him and gave him a small American flag. This was really touching for me, watching this little boy who hasn't even been in the country for a year, but who will one day in the next year or so be a U.S. Citizen. Amazing to see him holding an American flag in the next picture as he 'Poses' (yes is he is quite the actor with his expressions, etc.) with Connor. Connor is in full uniform and you can see his First Class Rank just shining at you.
The rest of the day was pretty low-keyed but it was an awesome day as we truly commemorate the brave men and women who have defended our freedom!!
May God continue to watch over all of you!
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

1st Anniversary of LETTER OF INTENT DAY

2009-05-20T07:28:00.000-07:00

It was May 20, 2008, when we saw a picture of a little boy (3 years old), who was living in China and looking for a permanent family and home. It was one year ago today that Jodie and I wrote a Letter of Intent to the country of China requesting to adopt this little guy. And, thus, we were introduced to Shen!!!
This year has gone so fast and there will be many more "anniversaries" to mark this journey! I am in Winnipeg, Cannada, today and just called Jodie to congratulate her on our "LOA" anniversary day.
To commemorate our day, I am attaching some picutures that have happened over the last week. The first picture is typical of how Shen has adapted over the past several months. He is in our yard, playing on our swingset but playing with neighbor children from two families near us. He is sitting on Peg's lap as they swing together. The next is of Shen trying on some sporting equipment at a local sporting goods store. He has really gotten into watching Connor play baseball and loves to throw and catch.
The third picture is more for Shen to know about as he gets older. Last week, I visited Guatemala for a speaking engagement and, as many of you know, I lived there for several months in 1969 as a Summer exchange student. On this last trip I was able to visit my Guatemalan mother and brother in the picture (the person on the right is Miguel Fernandez, a friend and the sponsor of my recent trip).
What an incredible year and we thank God for His Grace, His Love, and His Compassion!!
We wish you all well!
Love,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Shen's First Mother's Day

2009-05-11T06:59:00.000-07:00

First, know that mom (Jodie) had a great Mother's Day!! Her boys got her roses, and a few other little items as they really showed their love to their mom! Since it was Shen's first Mother's Day with Jodie, it was interesting to see him throughout the day. He really seemed to understand that this was mommy's day and that we wanted her to feel special (knowing that we always want mommy to feel special!).
The boys went out for a little while on Saturday with Shen's new t-ball set. It's just a little plastic contraption that breaks every time you hit it. But, Shen loves baseball after seeing big brother play organized little league in a real uniform. He yells for Connor every time he goes up to bat!! So, in one picture with this blog, you can see Connor teaching Shen how to swing the baseball bat to hit the ball off the tee. Shen really did pretty well with it!
The second picture is mom with her two boys in front of the cards, little presents and the roses. Don't they look FANTASTIC!! (Sorry, proud husband and dad!).
It was a beautiful day in Algonquin and it was a special Mother's Day!!!
Our love,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Warm Spring Days

2009-05-03T05:27:00.000-07:00

Well, we think the absolute worst of Winter is over. Now that it has started getting warmer, Shen will often say that he likes the cold weather more. However, when we go outside, he sure likes playing outside with no extra coat, etc. He really likes playing catch and riding his little tricycle.
Just to give you an idea of some "new" activities and things he is getting introduced to, you can see the two pictures with this post. In one picture, he is having an ice cream cone, but since he doesn't eat too quickly the melting of ice cream waits for no one, mommy fixed it with a paper plate surrounding it so he could eat in pleasure and comfort without worrying about making a mess. Of course, he is eating the ice cream cone outside in the case that he "does" get a little messy.
The other picture could have some great captions with it. We went to one of Connor's little league baseball games. Connor plays for the Algonquin Cubs and, on this day, they were playing the Algonquin Yankees. Once when Connor went up to bat, Shen was at the fence watching and we took this picture. So, you can see Connor in his batting stance while little brother watches through the fence. The possible caption that I like is "This is what I want to do when I get a little older!"
We hope all of you are well!
Love,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Social Security and TRAUMA

2009-04-25T05:47:00.000-07:00

Well, yesterday (April 24, 2009) was one eventful day. Shen and I went to the Social Security Administration Office to apply for his social security number, so that we can get a U.S. Passport and then also apply for U.S. Citizenship. The meeting at the social security office went very well and we should know something in 2-6 weeks. Shen was a real "flirt" at the social security office, acting bashful at times and then be his extroverted self when it worked for him. He definitely can be a charmer when he wants to be.
Afterward, me being "dad" gave in to him wanting a shake so we went to Culver's and Shen got his small vanilla shake. When we got home, we went out on the sport court for a little activity and it was so hot (82 degrees) that we didn't stay out too long. When we came in, I gave him a bottle of water and we went downstairs; me to my office to get caught up on some things and him to watch a movie. Now, comes the 'trauma" portion of the day!!
Connor came home from school and we all said hello. Then, I returned to my office and, after about 5 minutes Shen came to my office door (he is not allowed in my office) and said, "My throat sore!" And, he was actually choking and spitting up saliva, and "gunk". I grabbed him and sort of "heimliched" him, carry him upstairs and, about halfway up the stairs, he says "I OK NOW!" We continued upstairs and Connor could see what had happened and I asked him to get mommy. The four of us gathered in the kitchen and discussed what was going on. We discussed everything from overheating to seizures, etc., and decided to just watch him closely because he just kept saying, "I OK NOW." The problem he was REALLY quiet, not himself at all, for the next two hours. We kept asking him if he ate anything, etc. And, all he kept saying was "I OK." Well, he wasn't OK!
At dinner, he looked up at me and got a wierd look on his face and "spit up" again, this time most of the shake that he had eaten about three hours earlier. Mommy and I discussed this second episode and I honestly thought that his stomach had become upset with the combination of the heat outside and the shake. Well, wrong again!
About 5 minutes later, I could see that he was going to throw up again and that he really looked sick. Jodie and I watched him and I held him just as he threw up VOLUMES of shake, sandwich that he had been nimbling, and orange slices. And, then IT came up and out; a small marble-like game piece that he had found. See the picture above. The poor little guy thought it was "candy" because of its appearance and had swallowed it. He didn't understand what he had done. So, the rest of last night was a learning experience about things that DO NOT go into his mouth. And, how he has to talk with Mommy and Daddy when he doesn't feel well so that we can help him.
He had a great night's sleep and just finished a great breakfast. He looked up at us just a little while later and, knowing how concerned we had been all of last night, checking on him all night long, said, "I feel better now!"
We hope all of you are well!
Love,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Shen's First Easter Weekend

2009-04-16T04:36:00.001-07:00

This past weekend was Shen's first Easter. Shen was so great as he experienced Sunday School for the first time without needing to "see" mommy or daddy. So, Jodie and I truly enjoyed the Worship Service at our church, The Chapel.
But, then, as Easter goes, we had an Easter Egg hunt with our good friends (and basically second family), the Brewer's. We went to park in the Subdivision of Trout Valley not far from our home and had great fellowship with about 50 close friends. Shen had a great time in the playground and the little man made quite a haul of Easter Eggs on the hunt.
I have attached some pictures of this year's Easter. The first is of Shen and the Easter Bunny, then you'll see the little man on Easter morning and that the Easter Bunny brought him a new basketball and soccer ball (all his very own), and the final picture if of Shen and his little friend, Lily DeLaere, just before they begin the big Easter Egg Hunt.
We hope all of you are well and the Easter weekend was a Blessing to you and your family!
Love,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Shen's Easter Egg Hunt

2009-04-05T06:36:00.000-07:00

What a great week this has been! The weather has warmed up a bit; although, there is another winter storm coming tonight with 3-5 inches of snow. Perhaps I will get some more pictures and post the snow we had last week combined with the snow tonight.
On another note, Shen got together with his Adoptive Playgroup yesterday for their annual Easter Egg Hunt. I have posted 5 pictures showing the little man getting his eggs and playing with some of the children. He had a great time and continues to become more socialized as the days go by!
This week I returned from a trip one evening and was messing around with him and his television show. He "thought" I was teasing but wasn't sure. He wanted to watch something that wasn't on but was being pretty demonstrative about watching "his" program. I said that either he would watch what was on or daddy would just turn off TV. This discourse went back and forth, with me requesting that he make a decision and, suddenly, he says, "I want to talk about it!" WHAT!! Where did that come from?
The final picture of this blog has a story as well. Connor did his school term project and speech on Daniel Boone and had a coonskin cap. Shen got it and decided he would put it on! Enjoy all the photos!
We hope and pray that all of you are well!!
Love,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Spring Break

2009-03-28T09:06:00.000-07:00

Connor has been on Spring Break this week and it has been great to be together so much. The family did a lot of fun things this but two really stick out that we have to share with you. And, there are obviously some photos along with it.
The first event was that we met our great friends, the Dirks, at the Brunswick Zone and Shen went bowling for the first time. Connor got spend time with his friend, Noah, and Noah's dad, Kerry, was just great with Shen.
In the first photo, you can see the little man stepping up to the line and preparing to roll the ball down the alley (bumpers up of course). He had a great time. In fact, he got into it so much that, no matter how the shot ended up, he walked away from the lane and gave a fist pump (see the second picture and smile).
The next day, Connor and I took Shen to Chuck E. Cheese's and all I can say is that #1 it was definitely Spring Break. I have never seen so many people there. Secondly, however, Shen had another great play time. In the final photo, you can see him on the Bob the Builder tractor and just smiling away.
We are getting ready for a Spring snow storm tonight and tomorrow. However, we know it won't last long as Spring is here formally.
Love to you all,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Re-Adopt is Complete

2009-03-22T07:03:00.000-07:00

March 18, exactly 6 months to the day that Shen arrived home to meet Mommy and Connor, was a big day. We went to the Kane County Court House, appeared in front of the judge and we, Jodie and Jack, officially became Shen's adopted parents in the eyes of the U.S. Government. This process was necessary for several reasons but mostly so that Jodie could be officially recognized as his mother and so that we can now apply for U.S. Citizenship for Shen. The judge was great and she even gave Shen a big red star with his full name, Shen Jackson Groppel, on the front and the date (3-18-2008) on the back, commemorating this very important date!
I have posted two pictures, one is of the three of us right after the hearing, taken by our lawyer, Jane Ryan (who has been fantastic to work with) and the other picture of Shen later in the day showing his "building" capability with Lincoln Logs. The middle picture was an accident but it reminded me of what happened last September so I have not tried to edit it out.
We hope and pray that all of you are well.
Love,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Physical Exam/Social Worker Visit

2009-03-14T07:54:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone,
This is simply an update of the week's events. On Monday, Shen had the next physical exam in his journey toward becoming a U.S. Citizen. His current pediatrician, Dr. Ochs, is a wonderful man, who Shen loves. She got the next set of vaccinations required for his immigration standing and the physical exam revealed that he has some blockage (wax) in his ears but a little prescription for eardrops should take care of that. We also received a prescription to get another ultrasound. As you may remember, there was a slight shadow on his kidneys in the last ultrasound. We want to rule out any complications from the melamine "scare" from China and ensure that he doesn't have kidney stones.
Amy Trotter, our social worker, paid us a visit last Tuesday, and we really enjoyed having her here. Amy spent about 1-1/4 hours with us and asked some very detailed about Shen's habits, capabilities with care and language, etc. It was a great experience to see what the expectations were and the checklist she had to ensure that he was doing OK. I think he passed with flying colors :)! He really is doing quite well.
This is a big week coming up. On Wednesday, we have a morning court date for the re-adoption. If you remember, I went by myself to China to get Shen and this court appearance is for all of us to go so that Jodie and I both are his formal parents. Then, we will begin the process to apply for U.S. Citizenship.
We hope and pray that all of you are well.
Love,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Early March

2009-03-08T06:11:00.000-07:00

This has been quite the past several days. With the flu bug hitting our house and me traveling a bit, life continues to be a journey worth discussing. I am placing several pictures with this post to show you some of the fun stuff we have been doing.
First, note that our cat, Luigi, has gotten quite attached to Shen. One night, after Shen had fallen asleep, we went in to check on him and Luigi was asleep right next to him. It was precious.
Then, Connor was in a play a school and had one of the speaking roles in Fiddler on the Roof. Shen really enjoyed seeing his big brother on stage, along with the singing and dancing. One of the pictures is the celebration we had our home and Shen placed the ribbons on his ears (always the jester). Then, there is a picture of all our close friends who came to support Connor. I guess there about 20 there supporting our oldest. What a great night!
Then, there was cousin Lily's birthday party and everyone was to be dressed up as a Prince or Princess (or something to do with the King's court). Well, Shen being the jester, dressed as that. Note how he loves doing this. And, the final picture is of Shen and Mommy dancing at the party. You can tell he is still getting socialized but is becoming more accustomed to being out in public and around groups of people.
This is a big week; another doctor appointment to finalize the series of vaccinations and get our 6-month report for our Social Worker appointment on Tuesday.
I'll post later this week to update how all those meetings go.
Love,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

As February Nears its End!

2009-02-22T06:47:00.000-08:00

After over 50 inches of snow and incredibly cold weather, we are ready for February to end and prepare for a little warmer weather. Today will NOT be the warm weather day as it was 9 degrees when we woke and yesterday we received another 5 inches of snow.
Shen continues to do well. Jodie has been working with him on the alphabet and, while he struggles with some letters, he also seems to enjoy practicing and showing her what he can do. One minor struggle has been saying, "L-M-N-O-P". He tended to say it almost as one word and wasn't able to enunciate the letters clearly and distinctly. But, Jodie got him connected to what to practice and this morning, at breakfast, he said his alphabet pretty clearly.
The other "fun" item happened this morning as Jodie was teaching him how to respond when he begins pre-school if the teacher asks a question. She showed him how to raise his hand and wait to be called upon. So, being the teacher, I offered to help. I was the teacher, while Jodie and Connor were my students. I asked, "Who knows their name?" Both of my "students" raised their hands, and I asked Shen, "Ok, what is your name?" He responded correctly, "Shen Jackson Groppel." Then, I called on Jodie and asked her name, to which she replied, "Jodie Arline Groppel." Shen immediately said, "No, your name is Mommy Jackson Groppel." Smiles went across our faces.
The two pictures I am posting with this happened this past week. One is where he fell asleep at night while reading one of his favorite books, "A Pig is Big." And, the other is in his car seat and trying on mommy's sunglasses.
We hope all of you are well!
God Bless You!
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Connor's cast comes off

2009-02-08T06:40:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone! The Groppel family continues to grow very well together. Jodie and Connor have become deeply connected. He loves his mommy so much that he asks for hugs and kisses, and when mommy leaves to go workout or run an errand, he wants to know where she is going. It is wonderful to see the connection. Shen and Connor are also VERY close. In one of the pictures associated with this post, Connor is teaching Shen how to play a game called "Ants in Your Pants." It was fun to see Shen paying such close attention to Connor. And, in that picture, you can see that Connor still has his cast on. Well, this past week, the cast came off. In the second picture with this post, you can see the technician cutting off the cast with a "saw". As you can see from the concern on Shen's face, he didn't realize that the saw wouldn't hurt Connor.
We are experiencing some very warm weather right now, but with all the past snow, it's pretty muddy outside. All in all, a great reprieve from the bitter cold and snow we have had.
We pray that all of you are well!
Love,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

The Adaptation Continues

2009-01-29T06:19:00.000-08:00

Shen is growing rapidly and he is learning english quite well. Jodie spends a lot of time with him, teaching how to enunciate words. It warms my heart to watch her say, "look at mommy," as she teaches him to use his tongue to make a "th" sound like in the word THE. And, then the difference in a 'B' and a 'V', a 'T' and a 'D', and on and on.
Since this is one of the coldest and snowiest winters that I can ever remember in my 42 years of living in Illinois (yes, 15 in Florida), Shen is doing really well. He doesn't necessarily like to be cold but he knows that he has to "dress up" to go outside and he loves going "shopping" with mommy and/or daddy whenever possible.
He continues to be incredibly creative with his toys, making new and innovative train track designs, tinker toy creations, and lincoln log houses. We all love watching what he will do next.
Connor is growing by leaps and bounds but takes his big brother role with Shen very seriously. I know that Connor will be a great mentor to Shen when the time is appropriate; there is just so much love.
I am attaching a picture of Shen after he got dressed up one day to be a conductor for his train set. He even has all the sound effects down; likely from watching Thomas the Train Engine so much.
We pray that all of you are well.
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

As Winter Continues.....

2009-01-21T12:17:00.000-08:00

I have lived in Illinois most of my life but this has been one tough winter already and it's basically half over! Whew! Shen is doing great. You would never know that he has spent his previous 4 years in a climate that basically never gets below 50 degrees as the coldest temperature. He is a trooper and really keeps himself busy with puzzles, games, Public Television, and movies. His english continues to improve as well.
I am attaching a couple of pictures that clearly show his creativity. One is with his Lincoln Logs. Notice the precision in the building and how he even makes space for windows.
The other picture is of his train set. EVERY day he builds a different configuration for his trains. It is almost as if he decides, "OK, how can I top yesterday?" The picture shown took him about 15 minutes to build.
Enjoy and know that we pray for all of our friends and family!
Stay warm!
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Another Cold Winter Day!

2009-01-13T08:44:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone! I am in the midst of a pretty rigourous travel schedule right now but everyone is doing well. Shen is getting much more connected to mommy and to life in our home. Jodie, Shen and Connor went to our Church Small Group meeting this past Sunday and little man apparently had a great time running around and playing with new friends.
We are having a incredibly rough winter season so far; more snow already than in past recorded years and still A LOT more of winter to go. Shen has only been sledding once but I'm sure there will be plenty more days.
Connor is doing great with his cast but obviously can't get it wet so he's careful with all the snow and ice.
I have attached a typical picture of life in our home on a weekend. Connor watches a little TV, and Shen usually gets really caught up in his train set or in other games. Notice our little black Dachshund on Connor's lap.
Love to all of you!
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Connor breaks his wrist

2009-01-06T18:04:00.000-08:00

For those of you who do not know, Connor broke his wrist while snowboarding on December 31. He was taken to the emergency room and xrays were made showing a "greenstick" fracture on the radius bone in his forearm. This morning we took Connor to see an orthopedist who was great! He did a complete avaluation of Connor and then opted to cast the arm for four weeks. Connor chose "kelly green" as the color of his cast. Enjoy the pictures of the moments with Connor and Shen in the doctor's office. The first is with the splint on Connor's arm from the emergency room, then the assistant cutting off the splint and finally Connor getting the cast put on.
On other fronts, I begin traveling quite a bit so prayer is requested there. It isn't too bad but enough to make things a little rocky for Shen. Jodie is doing a wonderful job at connecting with him, but there continue to be challenges as we learn more and more about his behaviors and try to understand any pain from life in the orphanage.
Jodie is making a turn for the better as she seems to be getting a handle on her health issues. She's working out a lot and has a better outlook on where God is taking her in her life.
We hope and pray that all of you are well and that the initiation of 2009 has been a good one for you.
Love,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

New Year's 2009

2009-01-02T06:33:00.000-08:00

The little man's first New Year's celebration in the U.S. went really well. Earlier in the week, Shen was tested for his hearing to see how well the tubes were working. The result was tremendous. His hearing has improved dramatically over what it was. He got fitted for special ear plugs and an ear-protection head band so we can take him swimming (not too much actual swimming, more like playing in the water) soon.
New Year's Eve was fairly uneventful but we all had a good time. Connor is with his dad on a ski trip to the Northern Peninsula of Michigan so it's just Jodie, Shen and I this week.
New Year's Eve was spent with a Steak & Lobster dinner at home (Shen had popcorn shrimp). Then, Shen took his bath with his new ear plugs, and went to bed around 8:00 pm. Jodie and I watched the ball drop in Times Square on television and then I said good-bye to 2008 and Jodie watched the fireworks in Chicago on television.
New Year's Day was spent at the fitness center and watching football. Shen is doing really well by staying in the kid's area and playing there by himself or with the other kids and caregivers. He really is doing well!
On another note, we watched some football but it was hard watching the Big Ten take it on the chin all day (except for Iowa). Anyway all is well on our end. And, we wish all of you a healthy, happy and prosperous New Year!
God Bless You!
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Shen's First Christmas

2008-12-25T14:23:00.000-08:00

Christmas, 2008...Shen's First Christmas as a member of our family! It was fairly calm considering that Shen calls the Jolly ole St. Nick, Santa Clock (can't say Claus yet) and he didn't quite understand Santa got down the chimney, left presents and then went back up the chimney. We got up around 7:00 to a beautiful White Christmas, but didn't let Shen go into the family room until everyone was present. We had cinnamon rolls as we opened presents. Shen made a haul, as did Connor! Every year we say we are not going to get all these presents, and then.....well, you get the idea.
Here are some pictures from our morning together. It was great fun and we are all now recovering from the festivities.
The one thing we never want to forget is the reason for the season and that is to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. So, Connor and Shen ended the morning by singing "Happy Birthday!" to Jesus! It was a great day!
We pray that all of you had a blessed Christmas!!
Love,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

A REALLY cold Winter Day

2008-12-21T07:11:00.000-08:00

I'm sorry I haven't blogged in awhile but it has been an incredibly hectic season for us. No excuse, though; and I will try to keep a better record going forward.
Today, although it is only the first day of Winter and the shortest day of the year, it is also the COLDEST. We awoke to a regular temperature of -9 degrees with a wind chill of -36 degrees. Now, that my friend, is COLD!!! So, I thought I would initially show how Shen is spending the morning. In the picture, please note that he is watching the movie CARS while wearing his CAR pajamas, with a blanket over him. Also, note the SpongeBob slippers staring at you from his feet under the blanket.

On another note, Shen's follow up visit to the doctor last week went very well. The tubes remain inserted and in place. We are being very careful not to get water in his ears but don't think that this kid is not having fun. While I was in Orlando on business this past week, we had a big snowstorm in Chicago. School was cancelled so Connor was home and took Shen sledding for the first time. Although I didn't get to witness it myself, Jodie left me voice mails all day that little man was having the time of his laugh going down the hill behind our house and then pulling his sled back up to do it again. That has become one of his favorite phrases, "Do it again!"
We hope all of you are well.
With Love,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Building an indoor fort on a cold winter day

2008-12-08T13:15:00.000-08:00

Everything is going really well except that it is REALLY cold here in Chicago. When I returned from our Orlando headquarters yesterday, it was 9 degrees and there was about 4 inches of snow in our driveway, some of which had melted during the night, then froze (Yuck!). Since Shen had his ear surgery one week ago today, we are still keeping him indoors and not exposing to the winter elements too much. So, on these cold winter days, what else is a little 4-year-old to do but build a fort in the family room. Using cushions, sheets, blankets, rugs, pillows, and anything he could get his hands on, little man made this fort all on his own, and without any of us knowing he was doing it. He came in the next room and said, "Come look!" Well, this is what he demonstrated to us. I LOVE this kid's imagination.
We hope all of you are well and preparing for this wonderful Christmas season.
May God be with you!
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Shen's Surgery

2008-12-01T11:41:00.000-08:00

Today was the big day. Shen had tubes put into both ears. For those who don't know, this was done because there was a lot of fluid behind both eardrums due to the cleft surgeries and it needed to be relieved.
The procedure went well and Shen is doing great. The doctor's only concern is that his eardrums are extremely thick and there is a possibility that the tubes could get squeezed out. But, we will just be patient and see what God has planned for this part of Shen's Journey. Here is the way today went.
We got 4 inches of snow overnight so I got up at 5:30 and shovelled a quick path for the Jeep, then we left at 6:15 for the hospital, arriving right at 7:00am. We got Shen registered and we all immediately went back to his "suite." After a little paperwork, they put little man in his hospital "attire." You can see him in his personally "fitting" robe in the first picture. Then, they brought him PRESENTS!! He got a hand-made pillow and a hand-made dinosaur (both seen with him in the second picture) as well as a hand-made blanket. He LOVED them!
Then, they gave him a sedative to help him relax before taking him into the Operating Room. Well, this became quite the scene. He behaved very well but he became REALLY goofy on the medication. We couldn't stop laughing (with him, not at him). Finally, he went back to the O.R.
After about an hour, we spoke to the doctor and went back into his recovery room. He came out of the anesthetic really well, just a little groggy. About an hour later, he got to ride in his little set of wheels (final picture) and we came home. He continues to do very well; no pain, yet not very active. He's just having a pretty laid back day.
We hope and pray that all of you are well.
Love,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Shen's First Thanksgiving

2008-11-29T05:46:00.000-08:00

All of us have so much to be thankful for! This was a very special Thanksgiving holiday for the Groppel family. Although Connor wasn't with us this weekend, we had a wonderful and low-keyed family kind of Thanksgiving. Most of the day was spent at home with periodic "short" discussions with Shen about what Thanksgiving meant. Much of this was explaining how thankful we are for having him enter our life this fall.
In the late afternoon, we went over to Pastor HB's home for a "small" Thanksgiving dinner. There were a few children present and you can see in attached photo that Shen got in the midst of a hide-and-seek game with the other children. Dinner was outstanding and then it was back home for a low-keyed time of connection at home with mommy and daddy. This is definitely an incubation time for all of us as we continue the "attachment" process with Shen.
As we end the Thanksgiving weekend, I would ask for prayer around something. Shen, due to his repaired cleft palate and lip (which was a very good repair, by the way) has some fluid behind both ears that prevent him from hearing clearly. This Monday, December 1, he is having some minor surgery to put small tubes in his ears to both drain and help dry the area. Apparently, it will create a "night and day" situation and he will be able to hear clearly. It's all in God's hands!
We wish you all a very happy Thanksgiving holiday!
Love,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Football Rivalry Day

2008-11-23T07:24:00.001-08:00

The picture alongside today's blog is in reverence to mommy's school. Notice how the little man is dressed in yellow and blue that big 'M' on his cap. Yes, "Go Blue!" was a catchphrase at our home this past Saturday. Unfortunately, the maize and blue of the University of Michigan went down to defeat to grandma and grandpa's OSU Buckeyes. And, then daddy's school (the University of Illinois) took it on the chin from Northwestern. So, both mommy's school and daddy's school will not be in bowl games this winter (yuck!). However, daddy's "other" school (Florida State) beat Maryland and has an 8-3 record, before playing FLORIDA this next Saturday. And, that far eastern Big Ten school, where many of daddy's family has attended (yes, Penn State), is going to the Rose Bowl (go JoePa).
Everyone is doing great and we hope all of you are well!
Love,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Grandparents First Visit

2008-11-15T18:33:00.000-08:00

What a great weekend we have had. Jodie's parents, Doyle and Judy Smith, came over for their first visit since Shen joined our family. We have had a fantastic time! It was the only chance to get a visit in with the grandparents before the end of the year and we all really felt that it was important for Shen to meet his only grandparents.
We stayed very low-keyed since there is no need for too much excitement. We are still "incubating" with the little man and not going out too much with him. We have been coached to not get him around too many people at once.
Today was the Illinois-Ohio State fans and, since Doyle and Judy are RABID Ohio State fans, little man wore a sweatshirt in their honor (thanks to grandma bringing it over to him).
Enjoy the pictures!
Love,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Halloween and Attachment

2008-11-10T15:37:00.000-08:00

Sorry it's been a little while since I've blogged. We have been really busy and I have been traveling a bit. In fact, we are truly realizing the attachment issues that Shen has. Jodie and I knew that they would be there, but it is now that when either she or I leave the house, he doesn't like it at all. And, when I go on a trip, it has been really tough. But, with God's help, we will make it day by day and we all know that one day Shen will realize that we will NEVER leave him as a family. The poor little guy has been left so many times that he probably is waiting for "this family" to leave him to.
On a different note, I haven't had a chance to post the pictures from Halloween. Please take a look at our little man in his Giraffe outfit, then with big brother Connor (Connor is a gangster), and finally after getting all the goodies and sitting with mommy on the front step. By the way, I have to say that it was a hoot going around the neighborhood with Shen. It was almost like he would look up at me and was saying, "Are you telling me that we just ring the doorbell, and people smile at me, then give me candy?" Do we get to do this everynight??????
We hope all of you are well,
Love,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Daylight Savings Time has Ended

2008-11-03T08:01:00.000-08:00

Hello Everyone,
Well, our family, like all others, is going through the biological "stuff" when the time changes to "fall" back an hour. The day felt longer, and darkness hit WAY too early. Shen's biological clock is off as well. He was tired much of the day but hung in there until normal bedtime. Then, he woke up at 2:30 am and ready to go. We got him to finally rest and go back to sleep but, he woke again at 6:00 and daddy got up with him.
One fun part about yesterday was playing with all the neighbors. First, Shen and daddy went to the neighbor's sport court and the entire Ward family (plus Andy's sister Betsy) came out to play tennis, shoot baskets, and throw balls. Then, mommy set up a chair in the garage to watch the boys (Connor, the Wards, Nick Aylmer, and Shen) play some "front yard" football. It was absolutely hilarious to see Shen "mixing it up" with the big boys in some fun, tackle football. He didn't back down at all and really got in the mix.
Tonight will be another adventure. Our family is going to Connor's all school chorus concert about 10 miles away. It will be interesting to see how the little man hangs in there for a 2-hour concert. Wish us well!
We love you and hope you are well.
Love,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Happy Birthday, Shen!

2008-10-29T13:48:00.000-07:00

The big birthday itself was last Saturday, October 25. However, since we already had the Playgroup party planned, and since we have been coached to minimize the chance of "overstimulation," the celebration of Shen's birthday was put off until this past Monday. He got a lot of cards, a big, new car (from the movie CARS), and a really cool wooden train set from our neighbors, the Wards. To celebrate Shen's birthday, Margie Ward and her two sons, Colin and Armin, joined us for cake and a little playtime. Shen sat "patiently" as daddy read all the cards to him, and then devoured his birthday cake. Big brother, Connor, helped open presents (as only a big brother can) and little man spent the rest of his night playing with his new train set.
Enjoy the pictures of Shen's 4th birthday party!!!
Love,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Adoption Playgroup Halloween

2008-10-27T10:24:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, we took Shen to his first Halloween party! It was a blast! Little man wore a giraffe outfit and seemed to fit in pretty well, considering he may have never seen a bunch of kids in Halloween outfits before. He painted a pumpkin (note the picture), played Halloween bingo, played games with all the kids and parents, and then tried to break a Halloween pinata with all the other children.
The party lasted about two hours but the time went by so fast, it was incredible!
Sunday, we went to the mall to get a new snowblower (wait till Shen sees snow for the first time), and then went swimming at the fitness center. He LOVES to swim, even though he can't.
We hope all of you are well.
Love,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

My First Trip Away/Shen's New Monkey

2008-10-21T10:57:00.001-07:00

Well, today is the day we have thought about, planned for, but no one knows what will happen. I leave for my first trip away since Little Man and I met on September 8. The GREAT part is that Jodie has really connected with Shen in a big way! For that, I am thankful! So, I'm off to Portugal for three days, returning late afternoon on Friday.
A couple of fun things have happened this week that I want to share. Last week, Connor and Shen got on our neighbor's sport court and "kicked" the ball around. You will see from the picture that they had a great time outside.
The second picture is courtesy of our neighbors, the Wards. They got Shen a little monkey that he just loves! The picture is how he positioned the monkey to join him while watching TV. And, on a funny note, Margie Ward asked me what he had named the monkey. Since I didn't know, I asked Shen the name of his monkey and he exclaimed, "Monkey!" As if I didn't know..........
We hope all of you are well!
Love,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Dr. Visit and Trails of History

2008-10-19T11:22:00.001-07:00

The past few days have been eventful, needless to say. Shen went for his second doctor visit to get the results of his immunization testing. The good news is that he has most of the immunizations he needs, the bad news is that he still needs a few. So, round 1 of shots took place on Friday. Shen was a real trooper, just looking at the needle in his arm, as if to say, "OK, when are you going to really give me a shot?" The next round of shots will be in late November. There is also a bit a "cautionary" news. Because of the tainted milk problem in China, and the fact that Shen may have been exposed to the milk, he has to get an ultrasound to check for kidney stones. The results of the ultrasound will also be given to us at the next doctor appointment in late November.
On a fun note, Shen and I went to the Trails of History exhibit in northern McHenry County yesterday. It is a re-enactment of life in Northern Illinois during the late 1800s. I LOVED it but I don't think Shen could really appreciate it. All the food was cooked on an open fire, there was clog dancing, military procedures, trappers demonstrating their goods (note the photo with this post), Indian dwellings, and the whole nine yards. It was really great!
We hope and pray that all of you are well!
God Bless!
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Shen's First Emergency!

2008-10-16T17:01:00.000-07:00

Well, there was a little excitement today in the Groppel household! I was on the phone, finishing a call and Shen walks up to me and very calmly holds his hand up with one of his wooden rails (from his train set) attached to his forefinger. And, I mean attached! As you can see in the first picture, he had somehow forced his finger through the hole in the rail and couldn't get it out. So, being the calm daddy that I am, Shen and I walked upstairs and pulled the vaseline out of a drawer in our bathroom. Mommy, hearing that we had come upstairs, came over to see what her boys were up to and saw the predicament. Well, vaseline didn't work. Connor came in the door and thought we should try soapy water. Great idea, but it didn't work either. So, Shen and I headed downstairs, got the car keys and headed for the emergency room.
However, our neighbor (the newest angel in Shen's life) Andy Ward, is a physician (he heads up the Anasthesia department at Sherman Hospital) and he was in his driveway. I pulled in his driveway and in our neighborly way of doing things, exclaimed that "We are headed for our first emergency room trip!" Andy came over to investigate and knew he could take care of it. So, it was back to our house!
Andy first tried thread to get the finger down a bit, then he tried ribbon (which is the second picture). Finally, he said, "We probably need to cut it off." Andy went over to his house and came back with some big wood cutters. Shen remained calm while Andy did surgery on the wood (the third Picture). The wood fell away from Shen's finger and all was well again!!
Thank you Andy for being a special person in Shen's early life with us!!
We hope you enjoy the pictures!
Love,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Shen's First Tennis Strokes

2008-10-12T16:55:00.000-07:00

Well, I know a lot of you have been wondering when this would happen. I have even been asked "When are you going to get him on the court?" Today was the day!! I had a tennis workout planned with my good friend, Rick Miller, this afternoon and the Little Man went with me. Mommy's ankle is not healing very well so we decided to give her a break and the boys went out for a little tennis.
For most of the time, he stayed in the shade (it was 83 degrees today) and played with his trains. I could tell that he had never been around a tennis court before because all he kept saying as Rick and I were hitting was, "Wow!" Toward the end, Rick and I thought we would get him out on the court with us. Rick was kind enough to toss balls to Shen and, without any teaching, he made contact pretty well.
It has been a beautiful weekend here in Chicagoland but we all know it is short-lived. Even Shen realizes it (I think) because, when he reads at night with Mommy, one of his books is about an adventure with Winnie the Pooh. The book takes Pooh and Piglet through all the seasons, with Winter being at the end. On the Winter pages, Pooh is building a snowman and Shen will point to it, seeming to indicate that he is going to do that. Yes, you will Shen. Chicago weather in December, January and February is not like Southeast China, where it is summerlike all year long.
We pray that all of you are well.
Love,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

World's Largest Corn Maze

2008-10-10T06:23:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! This has been a fairly uneventful week as Shen is enjoying his first seasonal change. He is noticing the trees changing color and cool, crisp air as Autumn grabs the Chicago area full bore. Jodie is planning to involve Shen in a couple of playdates over the next few days with other families who have adopted children, so it will great fun to witness how well he socializes with other children. To date, everything we have seen is that Shen connects very well with other children, sharing and enjoying the all the activity that comes with toddlers.
Recently, Connor, Shen and I went to Richardson Farm, which boasts of the world's largest corn maze. It is 28 acres and has 11.1 miles of maze trails. Please look at the first picture to see an aerial view of this year's maze, dedicated to the Election Year. After that you can see various pictures of Connor and Shen posing at different parts of the maze. There is a picture of them preparing to enter the entire maze with a sign above, saying "Get Lost Here," then a picture of them preparing to enter one of mazes that leads to a design of the U.S. Capitol, and finally a picture of our boys atop one of the small bridges that the farm has to show people "where they are" in the 28 acres.
We didn't stay too long since we went late in the day but we all plan to go back next year, make a day of it, and enjoy the wonder of such an adventure.

Shen's "tinker" musical talents

2008-10-06T15:23:00.000-07:00

Today's meeting with our social worker went very well. Amy was incredibly supportive and gave us some great advice! We will continue to have 6-month and 12-month placement meetings with her.
The next "events" for Shen are next week: His evaluation with the school district that will take place in Mandarin, and the results of his immunization testing from Dr. Ochs.
Today, after Connor got home from school, he and Shen built some "tinker toys" musical instruments. Note the picture attached with this posting of how little man plays his "tinker toy" guitar and sings to his "tinker toy" microphone.
Love to all of you!
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Shen's First Workout

2008-10-03T11:28:00.000-07:00

This has been an interesting week. We are learning more and more about what "American" foods that Shen likes and dislikes. We are trying to get a handle on his sleeping habits to get the transfer into his own room done in the very near future. Connor has been the ultimate big brother this week, helping Shen in a lot of areas where he easily could have deferred to mom or dad.
Shen has gotten totally involved in all our daily activities. He and Mommy just got back from shopping and he is now unwrapping a new train/fire engine set to play with.
Jodie and I have our first post-placement meeting with our social worker this coming Monday. We are looking forward to seeing Amy Trotter on Monday and getting feedback about the attachment process that Shen, and all of us, are going through.
The attached pictures were really fun to see. I took Shen with me to a workout with my personal trainer this week and Shen just jumped in and wanted to try things out as well. You can see that little man has quite the physique AND the attitude to be a pretty physical guy. God's plan for his future is going to be really fun to watch!!
Enjoy the pictures!
Love,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

Johnny Appleseed Festival

2008-09-29T06:18:00.000-07:00

What a great weekend we all had together! Shen continues to adapt to life in the U.S. His English also gets better day by day. He now realizes that "You're welcome," follows "thank you." And, he even follows someone else's sneeze with "God Bless You!"
This weekend we put together a new tricycle for the little man that he just loves. We went swimming, which I think may have been his first time at an indoor pool. He was big-eyed the whole time and loved playing with the small fountains at the pool. I think family time at the pool this winter will be a "hot item" in our household.
The big event of the weekend was the Johnny Appleseed Festival held about 5 miles from our home. Mommy attended an adoption seminar at our church, which we found was EXTREMELY worthwhile! She learned about communicating with children and how communication can sometimes be difficult in the "honeymoon" phase of adoption, yet being aware of "signals" as you get into the 6-month to one-year time period.
But, back to the Johnny Appleseed Festival. It was geared just for the kids and we met a great couple and their son, who are in our Adoption Playgroup. Shen really connected with his new friend Jack (nice name, huh!). I have attached some pictures for you to see. First is Shen with his friend, Jack. Then, you will see Little Man eating his first sweet corn on the cob. He wanted NOTHING to do with "corn on the cob" at first, until he saw his friend Jack eat some. Then, he devoured the sweet corn. The final picture is Shen feeding a small donkey in the petting zoo.
Our family continues to adapt and we thank God for all the blessings bestowed upon us.
We love you all!
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

After One Week at Home

2008-09-26T11:46:00.000-07:00

We finished the first week at home last night and I have to say that this is one very flexible child. Shen has adapted very well to mommy, Connor, our two cats, our dog, and our lifestyle. He sleeps well, only getting up once in the night for the bathroom, eats extremely well (not picky at all), and creatively plays with his matchbox cars and legos. He has gone shopping with us and had his first "fast food" meal yesterday. Our neighbors have graciously enfolded Shen into their lives as well.
His english seems to getting better day by day, but he will still go into his "storytelling" mode in Chinese with Jodie, Connor and I not having a clue what he is saying. Last night, Shen and Armin (the youngest son next door) ran windsprints together across their sport court. They just kept running back and forth (of course, it was great that Armin let him win all the time). So, the blending of our family continues.
We hope you enjoy some of the pictures attached to this post. You will see Shen doing crafts with his playdough, then sitting in his carseat that our Angel friends, the Osorios gave us (he looks pretty comfortable, don't you think), and then getting a balloon at Trader Joe's last night.
Love,
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

The First Few Days Home

2008-09-23T17:48:00.000-07:00

Well, this has been an incredible time for our family. Shen has fit in so well! He is connecting (Big Time) with Jodie and Connor, enjoying the people in our neighborhood, and just getting accustomed to life in America and the Groppel household. We went to church on Sunday and he enjoyed Sunday School. Our neighbors have been incredibly gracious. The Rahn's brought a small stuffed puppy and Disney balloons to Shen, Pastor H.B. stopped by just to give him a quick hug, and everyone has been touching base to check in on the little man.
We took Shen to the Pediatrician today, the one who, on May 20 after looking at Shen's growth/medical records said, "He's a keeper" and then said, "Go get him!" Today, Dr. and patient met. Dr. Ochs felt that Shen was doing great, was very intelligent, and seemed very healthy. There does seem to bit a bit of fluid behind Shen's eardrum's, likely due to the palate and subsequent surgery. We will get him to a specialist later this fall. Then, they wanted all kinds of labwork to meet U.S. immigration standards. So, little man gave it all...blood, urine, and stool samples. They will evaluate EVERYTHING that he is or is not immune to. We need to go back in three weeks to discuss the results.
I am attaching some pictures for you to enjoy. One is from the doctor visit where we had to wait for over 4 hours to see the doctor and get everything done. Shen got bored so, being little Mr. Creativity, he put stickers on himself, his shirt and his shorts (he had a blast and it killed some time :)). The second is of Connor, Shen, and our neighbor's sons, Colin and Armin Ward. We just know that they will all become incredible friends. And, finally, this is the view I saw from behind as Shen and I met Connor coming home from school. Connor took his hand and walked him into the house. You get a great shot of our big 12-year-old guy and our little 3-1/2 year old addition.
Enjoy!! We love you all!
Jack, Jodie, Connor and Shen

WE'RE HOME!!!

2008-09-19T07:04:00.000-07:00

We made it home! And, Mommy and Connor are connecting with our Little Man really well. He and I were pretty tired and we both woke up at 2:00 am for about 2 hours this morning before going back to sleep. Don't you just love jet lag!!
As we get acclimated as a family, I want to again thank all of you for your prayers and support during this incredible journey!! I am attaching a picture that I took from the car at the moment that Shen met Mommy and Connor. Do you detect a little "beaming" from everyone?????!!!!
Love to all,
Jack, Mommy, Connor and SHEN

Layover in Tokyo

2008-09-18T00:05:00.000-07:00

We have made about 1/4 of the way home. As we sit in Tokyo's Narita International Airport, realizing that it is in the middle of the night in Chicago, it is just incredible to reflect on the past two weeks. Shen is watching a VeggieTales video and seems happy as a lark (We MIGHT need to get SOME sleep on the next 11-1/2 hour flight).
It looks like our plane is on time which means that by early evening on Thursday, we will be with Mommy!! It is going to be an interesting meeting when the little man gets to meet his forever mom!!!
Even though I have been away for two weeks, I feel closer than ever to Jodie and to Connor. And, our family dynamic will never be the same, but I believe that, with God's guidance, it will be STRONGER than ever!!
I will blog again after the return, probably sometime on Friday. Wish us well! Your prayers have been heard, felt AND appreciated!!
Love,
Jack and Shen

Swearing In Ceremony

2008-09-17T02:22:00.000-07:00

The Swearing In Ceremony went by without a hitch! There were about 30 families who, after being verified with passports and face identification with the child, were given an oath to swear that all information given the U.S. Government about the children was correct.
I am really sorry that I don't have pictures because it was really a unique experience. One family, in fact, was adopting the ELEVENTH child from China!!!
Today has been a pretty busy day with the process of departure. I have Shen fairly well set up for the LONG trip home with toys, videos, games, etc.
I have to say to all of you that this has been the experience of a lifetime. But, I am ready to go home. I miss Jodie and Connor a lot and am REALLY looking forward to being back home.
I would ask for your prayers over the next 36 hours. We need to get some good rest tonight and have a 4:30 am wake-up call to go the airport. With God leading the way (AGAIN, AS ALWAYS), we will arrive to our awesome home late afternoon on Thursday.
I am attaching a couple of picutures for you to view. There are pictures of the ADOPTION Barbie Doll that the White Swan Hotel GAVE US (notice the blond hair to match Jodie and the dark hair on the child to match Shen - they got this from a picture that I showed them earlier this week), another picture of Shen in front of the White Swan Playroom, a picture of our final night with our great friends, the Beros, Shen and their daughter Anna, and a last evening picture of Shen and Daddy before they head home!!
HERE WE COME, MOMMY AND CONNOR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Love,
Jack and Shen

U.S. Consulate Appointment

2008-09-15T22:58:00.000-07:00

Everything went smoothly with the U.S. Consulate meeting this morning. The only "little" blip was that the Consulate needed some extra paperwork (no kidding) to ensure that Jodie and I were approved by the State of Illinois. Apparently, Illinois has some of the strictest adoption rules in the entire United States. The Consulate needed to see our actual license as a Foster Home. No problem! I had the license and all supporting materials in the folio that Jodie helped me organize. So, all is well!
Tomorrow afternoon, Shen and I go to the U.S. Consulate for a "Swearing In" ceremony. I am not really sure what it entails, just that no cameras, no camcorders, no electronics of any kind, are allowed.
Other than waiting on the results of our Consulate Appointment, we have had a pretty low-keyed day. After speaking with Mommy and Connor, we went shopping for "stuff." We had a pretty good time looking at all the trinkets in the small shops surrounding our hotel.
Then, we had lunch with our good friends, the Beros, from Richmond, VA, and took a good, long nap. This was followed by another afternoon of swimming.
Even though it's still a couple of days away, I have started packing our luggage and organizing our carry-ons for the trip home. There is simply an incredible amount of material to care for, between the adoption documents and all of Shen's clothes/toys. It's definitely not like packing for one of my business trips :).
Also, I continue to be thankful for our travel agent, Janet! She arranged with American Airlines to get us directly from Tokyo to Chicago, instead of going from Tokyo to Los Angeles and then to Chicago. That puts us home in the late afternoon instead of late at night. Thank you Janet!!!
I have posted a couple of pictures from the day. The first is Shen, preparing for a big day with daddy (one happy kid), the second is Shen interacting with one of the baby girls in our travel group, and the third is the famous 7-11 and LadyBug Laundry! Enjoy!
Shen and I will post again tomorrow after our Swearing In Ceremony.
Love,
Jack and Shen

Touring the Villages

2008-09-15T00:08:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! Well, it wasn't so much going into the countryside as it was going to the far suburbs. This morning, Shen and I spoke with Mommy and Connor, then went to breakfast, and met all the other families for a tour of the countryside villages. We never really got into rural China but we did go pretty far out into the suburbs. After all, metropolitan Guangzhou has a population of over 10 million. Once we arrived in one village, we got out and walked through the village area. Since it was pretty rough cobblestone and dirt walkways, I didn't take the stroller. Little man and I got quite a bit of exercise, and a lot of it was me carrying him. His favorite line sounds like "Go, Babba!" which translates pretty clearly into "Pick me up, Daddy!"
I am attaching some pictures of the area so you can see the lifestyle within these Chinese villages. The first is a walkway in the village with a small canal next to it. The second is an orchard of star fruit trees, then a houseboat made of CONCRETE.
We left the village after about 2 hours and all the families went to lunch together, where we had dumplings, rice noodles, seaweed, various assorted beef dishes, tofu, pork, as well as a "flaming fish" dish. I am including two pictures from lunch with the final being the flaming fish head. The fish's head was REALLY on fire when they brought it out to us. I couldn't understand what Shen said when he saw the fire coming out of the fish's head, but it sounded like, "Wow, that's cool!"
On another note, little man has a bit of a tooth problem, or inflamed gum situation going on. So, we went to the clinic here at the White Swan and the doctor gave him some low level antibiotic for the inflammation. The doctor didn't think it was serious but we will probably need to see a dentist pretty soon after we get home.
He took a really great nap this afternoon and we went for a swim. Then, we went to the photo shop across the shop and we had a mission. I only found out yesterday that the people at the orphanage and foster home, where Shen had been living, were really worried about him. If you remember, when they handed him off to me last Monday, he was in a pretty bad state emotionally. In fact, I have learned today that, when he given to me, he was crying out for someone to rescue him. As I explained on Gotcha Day, they put he and I in a room, in an attempt to calm him, and we never saw the people from the orphanage again. Because they had not gotten to speak with me or say goodbye to him, they have been concerned for him. So, I am going to print out about 6or 7 pictures, showing him having fun and socializing with other people; then have them sent to the orphanage. This way, they will know he is content and doing well.
Now, I want to share something VERY important with all of you who have been following our blog. It is now 4:15 pm on Monday afternoon (3:15 am on Monday in Chicago). It was one week ago right now that Shen became our son! For that, I thank God! I feel so Blessed to have the family that I do in Jodie, Connor and Shen!! I am humbled beyond imagination on what this experience has meant to me. I know that the transition at home will have its trials. But, as long as we let God lead the way, I know we will make it through any hurdles placed before us.
Finally, I ask for your prayers tomorrow (Tuesday). Tomorrow is THE REASON why I am here during this specific time period. At 9:00 am here (8:00pm on Monday night in Chicago), we have our U.S. Consulate Appointment. It is THIS appoinment that determines when you come to China, when you get your child, and when you leave! Bob, our guide, has told me that we may not have any information until after Noon on Tuesday (after 11:00pm Monday night in Chicago) but, from his perspective having done this hundreds of times before, we have all of our paperwork in order. If the appointment goes well, we will have a "swearing in" ceremony on Wednesday afternoon.
I'm sorry this is so long, but there was a lot to share. Shen and I say a prayer for all of you every night.
Love,
Jack and Shen

Six Banyan Temple

2008-09-14T02:10:00.000-07:00

My plan worked; at least to a point. Since we weren't meeting as a group until 3:00pm, my plan was to get up "whenever," call Mommy and Connor, have breakfast, and then tire the big boy out so he would take an early nap. After a great call with Mommy and Connor, I put his "Oxford" t-shirt on him that my friends from Estee Lauder gave me last week (picture) and then we had a good breakfast. After that, we went to the White Swan Playroom that is only available to adoption families. It is quite the "playroom", as you can see in the picture. Then, it was off to swimming for an hour and lunch. Following the swim, he proceded to take about an hour long nap but woke up crying. After about a half hour of hugs, then some laughter, he was good to go again.
We met the families at 3:00pm and went to the Six Banyan Temple. Today is a BIG day in China as it is the middle of the Autumn Full Moon Festival, the one day of the year when the moon is at its fullest and there is to be the greatest fortune. Tomorrow, in fact, is a National Holiday in China. The Temple was packed with people, all practicing their spiritual rituals. We spent about an hour there, took some pictures and videos, and watched all the childen get blessed in their native cultural way. You can see Shen and I in the middle of the last picture. It was the first time I had actually witnessed such a ceremony.
Today is the birthday for one of the babies in our family travel group so we are all going to a family group dinner at Lucy's, where we will celebrate the Autumn Full Moon Festival and this little girl's FIRST birthday!
All in all another great day for Shen and I. Tomorrow is countryside touring with all the children and our travel group families to see some rural villages. This should really help all of us understand the culture in which these children have grown up.
We hope and pray that all of you are well!
Love,
Jack and Shen

Paperwork & Photo Day

2008-09-13T01:55:00.000-07:00

Today began with a LOT of paperwork! This started the U.S. side of the equation and, wow, was it tedious! I have attached one picture to show how it looked from the camera's perspective. It was 2 hours of going through legal documents, immigration forms, etc. And, the fun part is that there is still more to come.
After that, Shen and I picked up our laundry from LadyBug Laundry, and bought a traditional Chinese outfit for him. He and I both loved the dragons!!
It was then off to photo day for all the families in our travel group! As you can see from the attached photos, it was really fun. Only pictures can describe how beautiful these children looked in their traditional Chinese outfits. So, here is our little guy among all the girls who were adopted in our group. The pictures speak volumes and you can see what a little gentleman that Shen is. Please note that he is, on his own, holding the baby girl's hand in the children's photo :).
Then, it was off to a late lunch, followed by swimming. Dr. Lee, who met with me on Sunday and is the Medical Director for P&G China, visited us at the pool and brought Shen a couple of water toys. Shen loved them!
Well, we sort of lost control of the the day with the paperwork, family photos, lunch, and swimming, so I didn't think he would get a nap in but he just fell asleep. Oh, to be a toddler where you go, go, go, and when you're tired, you stop!
I'm not going to let him sleep too long since it is pretty late in the day. He and I are going to go to the local restaurant called Lucy's for dinner in a little while.
We love you all!!
Jack and Shen

The Zoo

2008-09-12T00:14:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! Today has been another fun day for the Groppel boys!! After a great breakfast, Shen and I met the other families and we went to the Guangzhou Zoo. It's a very small zoo but immaculate and the animal exhibits are beautiful. Shen really enjoyed the day. He got a new pair of sunglasses that mommy had sent with daddy and, being ALL boy, he put them on upside down for quite awhile. This brought a lot of chuckles from all the Chinese people.
And, speaking of the Chinese people, an interesting thing happened today that Jodie and I had been prepared for. Since the zoo is so small, Shen and I walked around by ourselves for awhile. Many Chinese people approached us when they saw that I obviously am not Chinese and that he obviously is Chinese. They just started talking and talking, with me not understanding a thing they said. Thank goodness our facilitators gave us a card to show the Chinese people. It explains that I am from America and have come to their great country to adopt the little boy they see with me. Interestingly, they just nod their "seeming" approval and just keep talking to me. And, I had NO idea what they were saying. I just wanted to get a picture of the Panda (the icon of this little zoo).
After the zoo, we went to lunch where Shen ate his FIRST EVER peanut butter & jelly sandwich (that he devoured). Then, he took a great nap. It sure is interesting; he does NOT ever want to take a nap but, when he finally settles down and becomes quiet, he sleeps like a rock. The same is true at night. He just wants to go and go, but when he stops, he stops. I have to wake him in the middle of the night just to make sure he visits the bathroom. And, trust me, there are more great "bathroom" stories, but for another time.
As for U.S. Paperwork, all is in the works for our initial materials to be picked up from the U.S. Consulate late this afternoon. Then, I meet with our facilitators several times over the upcoming weekend and on Monday to complete the various stages of said paperwork. I'm really not sure how it all gets done but I know there is a lot going on behind the scenes with our facilitators and the two governments.
Well, it's time to sign off for now. We love you all!
Jack and Shen

Medical Examination

2008-09-11T04:40:00.000-07:00

Again, this is the second post since many of you went to sleep last night. After Shen's nap this afternoon, we went to the Guangzhou Medical Clinic for his exam. This is Step 1 in the U.S. side of the process. The clinic is only for people immigrating to the United States and is sub-contracted by the U.S. government to "check" on the health of these individuals. There is a special part of the clinic that is for adopted children. You can see Shen getting his exam in the few pictures with this post. It basically seems like a formality, but it likely screens any "serious" problems. Anyway, Shen is a healthy little guy and I got to formally see his body measurement statistics (40.2 inches tall and 35.2 pounds).
After the clinic, he and I went swimming again. He absolutely loves the water! He went to the lifeguard to make sure that the lifeguard translated to me that he really wanted to swim again tomorrow.
We are now back in the room and he is playing with his cars and the toy tank he got from our guides. As I listen to him in his contentedness, consider his incredible stress on Monday, and reflect on issues in China, I am reminded of the Scripture in James 1:27 that refers to how God views PURE religion: "to look to the orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world." Tomorrow should be another good day for the Groppel boys. Before doing more paperwork, all the families are spending the morning at the Guangzhou Zoo.
Love,
Jack and Shen

Botanical Gardens

2008-09-10T23:23:00.000-07:00

While "little man" takes a nap, I will send a quick post on what we have done today. After eating a great breakfast, we met all the other families in our group and went to the Botanical Gardens. I wasn't ready for what we saw. As you can see in the pictures, it was beautiful. Unfortunately, it was REALLY hot as well. Shen and I went around the gardens pretty quickly, then stopped for a cold orange juice and waited for the rest of the group. When we got on the bus, he spilled his orange juice on his seat and got his entire outfit wet. It's a good thing daddy had an extra outfit in his bag :)!
After the gardens, the entire group went to a Cantonese restaurant and the food was great. Shen loved the grilled pigeon!!
When we got back to the room, he was still full of energy, but I knew that he needed a nap. So, after a brief battle of wills, I won. He is now napping but, unfortunately, he won't be down for long. We are going to get his medical checkup this afternoon for the U.S. Consulate to begin its weeklong paperwork. But, before that, we are going to drop by LadyBug Cleaners to take our laundry. I have quickly found that I could need up to three outfits a day.
We are having a great time together! And, I will send another post tonight at bedtime.
Love,
Jack and Shen

Application for Chinese Passport

2008-09-10T04:48:00.000-07:00

This is the second posting since many of you went to bed last night, so be sure you see the photos of swimming!!!
As I said, little man was exhausted after swimming and, while watching cartoons, fell asleep on the floor. See the attached picture; it was SO cute. And, please don't worry; I put him in bed right after I shot the picture.
This afternoon the six families went to the Guangzhou Police Station to apply for our children's Chinese Passport so they can leave the country with us late next week. I took a photo of the application as they gave us a formal document to bring home with us. We hope all of you are well!
Love,
Jack and Shen

The First Swim

2008-09-09T22:12:00.000-07:00

Today has been a blast so far! And, I will apologize because this blog is going to have a lot of pictures. After breakfast, little man (Shen) wanted to brush his own teeth (no help from daddy), so daddy took a picture. Then, we went swimming. Notice how Connor's hand-me-down swim trunks are way too big! It didn't matter; he loved the swimsuit!
Now, before I introduce you to the next Michael Phelps, let me explain that he has never been swimming before. But, he took to the water like a little minnow. As you will see, pictures say thousands of words. He actually kept wanting to TRY to swim, thus why I am holding in a front crawl and then a backstroke position. He WANTED to be in those positions!
After an hour of swimming and playing, he was getting a little chilled so we came to the room for a hot bath, and then split a sandwich from room service. He is now taking a nap while cartoons are on in the background. I think the swimming, followed by a little lunch, kicked in some fatigue. But, after all, naps are healthy!!
We have an appointment with the Guangzhou Police Station this afternoon, which is where we apply for his Chinese passport. I will blog later tonight to let you know how that experience goes for us.
Blessings to all!
Jack and Shen

The Shopping Trip

2008-09-09T04:47:00.000-07:00

After we left Civil Affairs, we realized very quickly that the vast majority of the time that we must spend in China is due to the American government. The Chinese paperwork is basically done. All we have to do from their perspective is get Shen's Chinese Passport tomorrow afternoon. Then, we have to wait until late next week for the American government to conclude all its paperwork.
Shen and I had a pretty good bonding day today. Since my Mandarin is not very good (basically non existent) and Shen knows just as little English, we are both getting very skilled at charades.
All the families went shopping this afternoon. I got a stroller for Shen that he REALLY likes. We were in the room this afternoon and he just crawled into the stroller to sit. I have attached a picture of the stroller and also one of him working in a coloring book.
He spent some time playing with some other adoption children today, all of whom are in a different travel group but all of whom are special needs. It was great to see him interact with the other children. In one situation, he was playing with blocks and was really into it when a little girl came up and started playing with the same group of blocks. I was ready to break up a conflict if he felt interrupted but, instead, he put his arm around the little girl and welcomed her to play with him. It was a great scene!
We just finished our bath and are preparing for a good night's sleep. We love you and wish you a great day today!
Jack and Shen
We just back

The Harmonious Period

2008-09-08T23:55:00.001-07:00

As I mentioned in the blog last night, the Chinese government call the last 24 hours a Harmonious Period where, if you think something is wrong with the adoption or, get this, if you think something is wrong beyond any information, you can actually say that you are unhappy. So, we went back to the Civil Affairs Office where I got Shen Yesterday. He didn't cry but he did get VERY sober, and I could tell he thought something bad was going to happen to him again. Can you imagine his little mind, going back to the place where there was so much emotional trauma yesterday and thinking, "OK, what are YOU going to do with me?" He ended up handling the moment well, considering. I was interviewed two different times and, at the end, the Chinese government looked at me and at Shen and said, "OK, he's yours!" I am attaching a picture from yesterday just to show what the Civil Affairs Office looks like.
I hope all of you are well. I will blog again tonight before we go to bed.
Love,
Jack and Shen

The First Night

2008-09-08T17:32:00.000-07:00

The first night went really well. In fact, after the bath last night, there have been no tears and a LOT of laughter. He has talked to mommy and Connor a few times and he is really doing well. Shen slept very deeply; daddy didn't sleep too deeply however.
I am posting a couple of pictures from breakfast this morning. He has OBVIOUSLY been taught some very positive manners by his foster parents. He put the napkin in his lap and wanted to use the knife and fork.
He is such a bright little personality.
Shen and I have to go back to the Civil Affairs Office this morning after the one-night Harmonious Period, to tell them that I DO WANT HIM AS OUR SON!!
Then, all six families are going shopping together to get some various assorted things that we all need.
Our best to you all,
Jack and Shen

Gotcha Day - Part 2

2008-09-08T04:49:00.000-07:00

I GOT HIM!!!!!! He is a darling little guy with an incredible personality. The day has not been without its bumps, however. I'll take you through it.
We met at the New Victory hotel at 1:30pm (12:30am in Chicago). After going through some more paperwork, all six families left on a bus to the Civil Affairs office. We arrived there at about 2:45pm and there were already about a dozen other families waiting for their children. We had even more paperwork to complete and then they started bringing children to families in our group. Shen was the last child brought out. He was dressed in original Chinese clothing and was very "sober" as he approached me. Then, when they handed him over to me, he just erupted in tears. Apparently, and we didn't know this, he had been living with a foster family for the past year. You can imagine what was going on in this little guy's mind! He had been abandoned at birth, gone through two cleft surgeries, but today he was yanked from a family who had been loving him for the past year, but couldn't keep him. Let me just say that he cried non-stop for about 3-1/2 hours. There were a few interludes of laughter between he and I, however. For example, on the bus ride home, he said to our guide in perfect mandarin that he had to pee. Well, in China, they just pull over. So, the bus driver pulled over and I was instructed by our guide to take him behind the bus over by a banana tree and let him pee. Thus, was my introduction to my son going to the bathroom. After that, we called mommy and mommy said she couldn't wait to hold him and, you will love this, he can't speak English but I had already taught him to say OK. So, that's how he responded to mommy's comment, with an OK and then an "I Love You."
Well, the crying became more of an aching cry (almost a mourning cry) until I gave him a bath back in our hotel room. Then, he settled down and we have been having a great time ever since. We have been watching television and coloring on cartoons the rest of the evening.
Now, one more funny thing just happened. He told me niao niao (pronounced nyow nyow) which means pee pee. Well, he has NEVER seen a toilet before because, in the Chinese orphanages and most homes, they only have a recepticle in the floor. Well, I went in the bathroom with him, showed where to do his business and he proceded to pee all over the wall behind the toilet. Needless to say, I had to say Bu Shi (Pronounced boo shee) which means "not OK." I know some of you are laughing right now.
We are going to settle down soon to try to get some sleep. I am not sure what to expect relative to the crying but we will just deal with what is handed us. We have to be back at the Civil Affairs office tomorrow morning because, to the Chinese government, this is called "Harmonious Day," which means we have to be happy with our child. Well, mommy and I are VERY happy, but I still have to go back to sign final papers.
Enjoy the pictures! I only got pictures when we got back to the room; there was just way too much going on at the Civil Affairs Office for pictures. There was a cameraman there and, hopefully, I will get pictures later. I did get the Gotcha moment videotaped so, when I get back to the we will download that and you will get to see the actual event as it happened.
We love you all!
Jack and Shen

Gotcha Day - Part 1

2008-09-07T17:21:00.000-07:00

Well, today is the day! I just finished meeting with Dr. C.S, Lee, P&G's Medical Director for China that I mentioned in last night's blog. He was so incredibly gracious, and offered any and all assistance to me during my stay in China with Shen. He also shared with me the Bible Study group he is in and offered to take Shen and I to his church next Sunday.
Now I am in final preparations to go get Shen. In addition to all the formal papers for the adoption, I have a teddy bear, a sippy cup with orange juice, a matchbox car, some Chinese cookies, a picture of mommy who we are going to call in the middle of her night to say Gotcha, and ALL the gifts for the nannies at the orphanage, the Passport officials, the Civil Affairs officials and the Notaries. I have attached a picture of all the materials and gifts that will go with me to the Civil Affairs office this afternoon.
The plan is that I will be picked up at 1:30 pm (12:30 am Chicago) and, with the other 5 families, go to the Civil Affairs Office. Sometime between 3:00 and 4:00pm (2:00 - 3:00 am Chicago), I will get Shen.
In talking with Jodie this morning (last night her time), she asked me to blog my feelings right now. WOW! It's really hard to express how I feel right now. I have been blessed to live what the world might call a successful life, and I have been able to do most of the things I have ever wanted to do. I've lived in a foreign country, traveled to 49 countries, climbed an active volcano, been on a photographic safari in Africa, driven to Alaska with my dad camping all the way, met political figures and celebrities from all walks of life, stayed actively involved in the game (tennis) that I love, am involved in a great business with great partners, and yet, at the end of the day, I know that family matters most! The other things I mentioned; well, they matter, but not like family and relationships! What will happen in my heart today is what really matters!
Jodie and Connor mean the world to me, as do our immediate and extended family and friends. Today is still a different feeling for me. As my incredibly astute wife said, adopting Shen is a matter of my heart! I know that God has led Jodie and I to this day and, for that, I am thankful and feel tremendously blessed! I am humbled beyond imagination. I am nervous about the unknown with Shen today but, yet, I have a sense of peace about what is going to take place. I thank all of you for your prayers and support! So, here it is again: There, but for the Grace of God, go I!!!!

The Day Before the BIG day

2008-09-07T04:21:00.000-07:00

I thought that the day after you make a long international trip was supposed to be a day of recovery! Today didn't have a lot of recovery time, but it was a GREAT day!! It started off with a short tour of the local area with my adoption facilitator, Bob! He showed me the most imporatant things for a new adoption parent to know - a 24-hour Seven-Eleven that is next door, the huge White Swan Play Room (which is ONLY for adoption children and their parents), the swimming pool, and the LadyBug Laundry within one block of our hotel. When we returned, I had the great fortune to meet the families who had their "Gotcha Day" last week. This was really cool because one family (the Brannons) are close friends of our cousins (the Lauffers) in North Carolina. All of the children were just adorable to see!!!!
After that, I was invited to go to lunch with some colleagues from Procter & Gamble, who work in Asia. For those of you who don't know, P&G is our company's biggest client and, over the years, my partners and I have gotten to know many P&G executives throughout the world. We went to a well-known restaurant in Guangzhou called the Cow and Bridge, where we ate eel, pork, rice, vegetables, and other delicacies. At lunch were Rene Co, his boss (Erik Jonnaert), who had heard me speak in Cincinnati twice before, and some members of Rene's family. They wanted to introduce me to P&G's lead physician in China and we had the opportunity to speak tonight. Dr. Lee heads up P&G's efforts in China with our program, the Corporate Athlete. He is meeting me for coffee tomorrow morning to give me contacts in the medical community, associated with P&G, who are all willing and ready to help me if I have any problems at all. Everyone has just been so incredibly nice and helpful. They are Blessings to me and my family, that's all I can say.
After I returned from lunch, I went back to the famous Seven-Eleven and got snacks for Shen's arrival to our hotel room tomorrow evening. I then wrapped the gifts for the nannies at the orphanage, whom I will meet tomorrow, and I just finished going through Shen's toys, coloring books, and "stuff" that mommy sent with me.
The camera and the camcorder (thanks Margie for loaning us the camcorder) are all charged and ready to go. Tomorrow is Gotcha Day!! Yes, I am excited about it because I believe that Jodie and I have been put on this path from a higher calling. In Isaiah 43:5, Scripture says, "I will bring your children from the east and gather you from the west." That says it all!

I have arrived in Guanzhou!!

2008-09-06T09:17:00.000-07:00

I made it! So, the traveling part of the journey is over after leaving our home in Algonquin about 30 hours ago.
I have just settled into my room at Midnight (11:00am in Chicago)and wanted to send a quick update on the trip. It was actually quite good; uneventful, as I like all my plane rides. I took a picture of the 747 I flew from LA to Tokyo, only because I wondered what would be going on in his little mind when he sees a plane that size on our way home. And, the fact that mommy (in all the travel she has done) has never flown on a 747. So, our son, Shen, will fly on a 747 before mommy does.
Then, I walk in the room tonight and first of all firsts!!! As all of you know I have stayed in PLENTY of hotel rooms all over the world. Well, I have never checked into a hotel room and had a baby crib waiting for me in the room. I can see some pretty good smiles on many of your faces right now. I have attached that picture as well. Now, I need to get some sleep. I will blog tomorrow night and let you know all the preparations I get through tomorrow.

The Journey Begins!!

2008-09-04T19:03:00.000-07:00

It is just a little past 9:00pm Central Time and we are winding down before the travel begins. I have finished packing and am posting this to the blog before shutting down my computer. There is a lot of introspection in our home tonight, for Jodie, for Connor and for me. We have prayed together, cried together, expressed our love for each other, discussed how we will miss each other, and yet feel so excited about what God has set us forth to do.
I have a car picking me up at 5:30am tomorrow, then flying from O'Hare to Los Angeles, connecting to a flight to Tokyo, and then on to Guangzhou. It will be a little over 25 hours of traveling time. I will blog again from China. But, until then, I will express to you my heartfelt slogan for the next two weeks: "There, but for the Grace of God, go I!"

Shen's Statistics

2008-09-02T16:27:00.000-07:00

This will be a short post but we wanted to tell all of you that we received Shen's growth statistics this week. He is 40 inches tall and weighs 35.2 pounds, which means that we have been pretty close in all the estimations to get clothes, etc. for the upcoming trip.
Now, the basics of packing come into play. I won't have to pack too many clothes for either of us, since laundry is done frequently during the trip. However, I do have two big suitcases going that have gifts for the caregivers at Shen's orphanage, games, playdoughs, DVDs, a LeapPad that Connor had taught me how to play today :), and just some fun stuff for Shen and I to do while we get connected.
Best wishes to all of you!
Jack and Jodie

Our First Party with other Adoption Families (9/1/08)

2008-09-01T15:01:00.000-07:00

Today was simply a tremendous day! While Jodie is still recovering from her foot surgery (and doing better day by day - just a little antsy and irritable), Connor and I went to a Labor Day Picnic for other adoption families in our immediate area. These families are actually a "Play Group" that we will join immediately and jump in head first! I have attached a couple of pictures from the day.
It was simply incredible how God has placed all these people in our lives! Connor loved playing with all the children and I enjoyed connecting with parents who had "Been There, Done That!" with the adoption process. There were several parents who had tremendous wisdom in the process and some that had just gotten back. We are just so excited to have met these people who have already gone through what we are about to enter. And, we really look forward to connecting more with these families as we parent Shen!!

What a Friday!!

2008-08-30T12:49:00.000-07:00

Well, Friday (yesterday) was quite the day. As you know from the previous post, the angry ankle was taken care of! The surgery went well for Jodie but, as the surgeon said, there was more in there than anticipated. He removed 2 dime-sized bone spurs, all 7 layers of scar tissue and did another procedure to improve blood flow to some joint articulations. The did a nerve block on the whole leg so yesterday was quite the day with Jodie not feeling anything in her leg but feeling like she was dragging something with a big, stiff boot on it. The boot will protect her ankle and she should be just getting out of it when Shen and I return from China. By the way, all of the above happened while I was flying back from England after conducting a program for Estee Lauder at Oxford. The angel who took care of Jodie to and from the operation was Kathy Brewer, whom we are so thankful for. As God would have it, I arrived at the door from England just five minutes before Jodie and Kathy returned home.
Shen's bedroom is basicall all decorated. We thought you would like to see what his room looks like so his picture is attached.
We hope you all have a wonderful weekend!
Jack and Jodie

The Angry Ankle!

2008-08-26T11:21:00.001-07:00

Well, this is going to be an unusual entry but this is definitely part of our journey. For those of you who know Jodie, you know that she has quite the athletic and active background. In all those years, her ankle has taken quite a beating and we just found out this morning that it needs to get taken care of. Here's the diagnosis as we heard it from her doctor reading the MRI: There is lot of scar tissue from all the previous damage, 7 layers of scar tissue in fact, the cartilage is bruised and may need some subchondral drilling to help it heal, and there is some tissue erosion to the bone that needs repaired. On top of this, there is a bone spur that has broken off but he thinks it is far enough back in the joint that it won't be a problem.
This is all going to be done with arthroscopy (unless he NEEDS to do more when he is scoping the joint). She will need to be in a boot for three weeks and the doctor thinks she can move around pretty well in the boot. We decided "sooner than later" with Shen arriving here on September 18. So, this angry ankle surgery is happening this Friday (8/29) so the healing can be well along by the time Shen hits the U.S. We got the crutches out today and fitted them for her. So, with humor in our hearts that this is yet another little adventure from God, I am attaching a picture of my adorable wife (Shen's mom) and her crutches. Enjoy!!

What a weekend!!

2008-08-24T17:14:00.000-07:00

This has been one busy weekend! I put together two strollers and got the carseat in the car. As my neighbor pulled out of his driveway, on his way to church, he yelled, "You'd better get ready!!" Jodie did a major overhaul on our basement area where Shen will have his own little play area. Then, I was out and about doing errands of all types, one of which was trying to find a camcorder so I can record some the great events that will happen while in China with Shen.

On another note, we had another angel helping out this weekend (Mike Myers - see the picture with this post). He built shelves in our garage, child-proofed all our drawers and cupboards, placed all the outlet covers on, putting pass-through doorknobs on all the doors so Shen can't lock himself in or out of a room, and hung blinds in Shen's room.

We pray that all of you have had a great weekend!

Until next time,

Jack

The Preparations Continue

2008-08-23T06:07:00.000-07:00

Yesterday (Friday), Jodie went on an excursion to the mall with another angel in our lives (Joannie Myers). The list of things they got for Shen, our home awaiting his arrival, and just overall preparation "stuff" was incredible. And, they did it. The list is now down to one page!

Just to give an idea of what they did, here goes: The got new outlet covers for all sockets (and placed them in), got child locks for all drawers/cabinets that Shen can reach, got a table and two throw rugs for his room, various games, dvds, coloring books, crayons, for Shen and daddy to play with while in China together, new child thermometer, bicycle pump (so we can keep exercising once he's back), a booster chair for the kitchen table, kid's "learning" toothpaste, a kid's DVD player (for China AND the plane ride home), a magnadoodle game, little playdoughs, window cling-ons for the plane ride home (we are gonna decorate our seat area :)), kids headphones, red tissue paper to wrap our China gifts for the orphanage, bags of chocolate for gifts for the nannies and our guides in China, and a lot of neat things from IKEA to decorate Shen's room. WHEW!! Jodie and Joannie knocked it out of the park yesterday! And, today, Joanie's husband, Mike (another angel from God) is helping with the child locks, etc.

Connor and I are off on our own little Saturday Journey today to get some DVDs, books, crocs, and, oh yes, a Mandarin-English pocket dictionary for me to have.

I am attaching a picture of the list as it stands now. Like I said, it is one page but it's a BIG page. Enjoy!

A big week of preparation

2008-08-20T19:25:00.000-07:00

This has been one incredible week of preparation. It started with an angel from next door (our neighbor, Margie) who went clothes shopping for Shen. She came back with a stash of stuff that I will be taking to China. The fun part is that she got Shen a Chicago Bears warm-up suit so, picture this: A little 3-1/2 year-old getting off a big plane after about 26 hours of flying, wearing a Chicago Bears track suit.
Jodie has been incredibly busy! She put together some packets that our family and extended family are going to be receiving. The purpose is to prepare you for being in Shen's life. She also set up Shen's first Pediatrician appointment for the week he is back and she had a conversation with the school district so we can get assessment information. The one thing we want to do for Shen is help him get started off on the right foot. And, finally, we have discovered that there is an international adoption play group for children between 2 and 6 that is only about 5 miles from us.
We feel so blessed in this entire journey!!!

Mommy's day out

2008-08-19T07:22:00.001-07:00

Mommy had quite an afternoon this past Sunday, preparing Shen's room for his arrival in less than a month. Jodie went to Target and used all the gift cards she received at her shower to buy Shen a beautiful blanket, some toys, a great "frog" soap dispenser that bobbles, and a lot of other things that he will need. Then, we sat in Shen's room for about an hour just thinking and reflecting on what was about to happen in our family. We shared all the cards she received and went through all the gifts she received. We are so grateful to our family, extended family, and friends. You are all a blessing to us!! Shen's room is really coming together and Connor loves it!

On another note, we took our Golden Retriever, Charlie, to Doggie Boot Camp for two weeks. He is a great dog but is still a puppy with "puppy" characteristics, like jumping, mouthing, thinking that the cats are prey, etc. We really need him to become more disciplined during these two weeks so we are hopeful.

What the trip will look!

2008-08-17T12:42:00.000-07:00

We thought we would give everyone a sketch of what the upcoming trip is going to look like. We wrote this to our family from Shen's perspective. Enjoy!!!

To my new Family!

I hear that a lot of you have been asking questions about me so, my new mommy and daddy (you know them as Jodie and Jack) wanted me to introduce myself to you. My Chinese name is Shen Guo Zhan and I am going to keep my name Shen. I am over 3-1/2 years old, with my birthday being October 25, 2004. I was abandoned at birth and was found on a bridge in Shenzhen City, China, where they say I was alone for two days. I have been well cared for at the Shenzhen City Welfare Institute for my whole life and the nannies have been wonderful to me. We get along great and they even wrote in my medical records that they think I am a little leader. I will hold the hands of the younger kids when we go outside and I always try to help clean up after playtime and meals.

I was born with a couple of little issues. I had a cleft lip and a cleft palate but, after two successful surgeries, the majority of the problems seem to have been corrected. I still struggle a little with speech but mommy and daddy have promised to help me with speech therapy.

I am so looking forward to being with my “Forever Family” in Algonquin, Illinois, and I CANNOT WAIT to meet my new brother Connor! Daddy is flying over to Guangzhou, China on September 5, arriving on Saturday, the 6th. He and I will be introduced on Monday, September 8 (they call that day “Gotcha Day”), and then I am his forever. While we are in China, getting to know each other, we plan to swim a lot together, go to the zoo, play matchbox cars, and just get connected. Daddy will get my Chinese papers near the end of the first week (around September 11 or 12). The next week, daddy meets with the U.S. Consulate in Guangzhou on Tuesday, September 16. Then, get this, he and I go back to the U.S. Consulate on the next day (9/17) for a “swearing in” ceremony! And, then, the real fun! Daddy and I will get on a couple of big planes together and fly for over 24 hours to arrive home over the weekend. Daddy told me that he is really excited about that airplane ride with me J. Daddy also plans to “blog” (whatever that is) our entire trip so he will send you the blog address later. I hope you will follow our journey together!!!

I hear that the winters get a little rough in Chicago and I am used to a great all-year climate here in southeastern China. Maybe I’ll have to have mommy and daddy take me to Orlando (where daddy’s office is), or to Tampa where my Aunt Ruthann has a winter home (YES!), sometime because I hear that the weather is better there, especially during January J.

I am not sure when I will get to meet all of you in person but I did want to say hello to you. Please bear with mommy and daddy. I am going to be a handful for a little while because all I have ever known is my orphanage and the nannies there. I have never been in a real family before. So, there are going to be some adjustments and some attachment “stuff” that I have to get through, but I know that my mommy and daddy will always be there for me.

I have enclosed a picture of myself below. I just wanted to say HELLO to all of you or, as we say in China, “Ni Hao.”

Love,

Shen

Three weeks before the trip to China

2008-08-16T14:17:00.000-07:00

This is the first entry into Shen's Journey. We are Jack and Jodie Groppel, the proud parents of Shen, who will be joining our family in about three short weeks. Shen's brother, Connor, is very excited about welcoming Shen into our family as well.
The past few years have been interesting to say the least. His mom and dad began the adoption process in the late fall of 2005, praying about whether to adopt or not. Feeling called to adopt, and knowing the Lauffer's in North Carolina who adopted their precious Lily from China, we decided to go the route of International adoption and signed on with Harrah's Adoption International Mission in Houston, TX.
Our log-in date in China was September 12, 2006, and we were on our way to having a child from China. Thinking that it would likely be a girl, we painted her room pink and earnestly planning for her arrival. But, as we all know.... We plan and God laughs!! A girl was not in the cards. God put it on our hearts to look into the Waiting Child program and, low and behold, we found Shen!! Soon, I will write about how fast everything has happened this summer!