China: That time we got into a Chinese automobile accident
See…so many options.
We have had a great couple of days here in Ashby’s birth city of Xi’an. When we arrived here several days ago, they told us that this was a very important historical city but kind of small…only 8 million people. There are a lot of people over here in China.
Our new little routine is this: we eat breakfast and then head out to site see until 1 or 2. Then we come back to the hotel and Ashby takes a nap while the rest of us unwind with a movie, book or something else quiet. Then, Ashby wakes up and we play until dinner. After dinner, we walk to a local ice cream shop for dessert. This has been our routine every day in Xi’an and I don’t see it changing. It’s working out really well.
Yesterday, Smith asked me to watch a movie with him and “sit still the whole time and not get up”. Smith has quickly stepped into the middle child role and is missing his mommy time. Kensington has become a HUGE help and pretty much stayed the same, so far, Ashby is a breeze but Smith…he’s been pushing my buttons and has been extra clingy. Sweet boy…we’ll figure this all out together.
Anyway, while we were watching the movie yesterday, I heard Kensington and Ashby doing this…
After this, we loaded up with our driver (that the adoption agency set up for us this week) and headed to see the Terracotta Warriors. It was about an hour drive to see the museum and right as we were about to arrive…we got into a little car accident. A motorcyclist ran right into the side of our van. Thankfully, everyone was okay (although the poor motorcyclist had a pretty big gash on his head and my kids kept saying “oh my gosh, his face is bleeding”…which it was). Our driver and the motorcyclist started yelling at each other (in Chinese, of course, but yelling…sounds like yelling no matter which language you speak) about whose fault it was (so we were told later) and our driver said he couldn’t move our van, so the five of us were told to get out right in the middle of the intersection (and if you’ve ever seen a Chinese intersection…you know how terrifying they are when you’re in a car much less walking through one!).
Needless to say, all is well after the excitement. Thank you Lord.
My three as we waited in line for our tickets to get into the museum.
Now listen, I had no idea what the Terracotta Warrior Museum would be like but I can honestly say, it was AMAZING. Hands-down, this was my kids’ favorite site seeing day by far!
Anonymous says
She is so adorable! Love your new family of 5 🙂 Just a question, what happened to her poor little hand? I feel horrible for her about that. But I'm sure she's getting much love from her new family which makes her feel amazing, special, and loved 🙂
Anonymous says
I'm wondering about her hand too. Please answer this Shay! I'm so loving Ashby and the Shull 5! Im so thankful that nobody got hurt in the car accident. Enjoy the rest of your time in China!
Laurie S says
Wonderful post Shay. So glad that you are all doing well as a family of five. Bless K's heart for helping Ashby with adjusting to her new family. We went to China five years ago and the Terracotta Warriors were one of the best parts of the trip. Try to also get to a silk factory in Xi'an. Enjoy the rest of your trip. You are in my prayers.
mel @ the larson lingo says
The video of K jumping on the bed & making Ashby laugh…LOVE those giggles from both girls! Brought even more tears to my eyes! So glad all of you are safe after the little car accident…yikes!!! And, Ashby is exactly 2 months older than Luke…he was born on August 9, 2012. 2.5 year olds are fun….and busy! Glad I have another friend in this stage 🙂
Anonymous says
Love love LOVE seeing Ashby and Kensington in their matching bows!! And that she's already got a chic fashion sense just like her mom and big sister 😉 So happy for y'all and constantly praying from here in Georgia! xo
Dacia Gill says
I can't help but stay up after I put my daughter to bed hoping you've blogged a new post. I have loved following your story and finally seeing Ashby. She is beautiful and I love seeing her and K together. Having a younger sister of my own, there's nothing quite like the bond you have with your sister! My sister and I let each other know when you've posted new pics of Ashby and the family on Instagram! Just wanted to drop in and say hi and that we can't wait for yall to get back to the DFW! 🙂
Madison says
OH MY GOODNESS at that video. So sweet & precious…a memory to be kept forever. So happy that everything is going well for you all so far.
Serene says
Hi Shay, so glad to hear about your journey and hope you are enjoying your China adventure! I live in Beijing and if you make it back you need to hit up Peter's Tex-Mex to get your taco fix and it's also very child friendly 🙂 Blessings to you and your family.
Danika says
That video of your girls, oh my goodness, precious. Hearing Ashby laugh must have been the most wonderful feeling. They are going to be a great pair those two!
sarah c says
Aww so cute! I love the sweet moments between Ashby and Kensington! I didn't know know there was a honeymoon stage in adoption. Interesting. It will take some time for her to adjust to her surroundings when she comes to TX but she will adjust well. I thought it was great she was adjusting soo quickly already Yay! Beautiful family of 5.
sarah c says
By the way I'm so glad you were not hurt by the car accident! Or through crosding the intersection ! Yikes!
Anonymous says
Hi Shay,
So glad to read your latest blog. All the kids are so precious and are hanging in there until you come home. I am sure that Smith will be a little more relaxed and happy when he is in his own home. Every day you have something related to the adoption process then you have some down time to sight see. But just think by next week you will be in your beautiful home giving a tour to Ashby. She will love your new home. I gather that she doesn't smile much is because she isn't used to taking pictures. She looked like she was having a blast with Kensington bouncing on the bed. Here's praying the rest of your trip goes smoothly. Thanks for sharing what you have so far with us.
Anonymous says
Your family is beautiful! Praying for your adjustment from a family of 4 to a family of 5!
I am a Texas girl who lives in China so I know how important it is to get your taco fix. While I dont live in Xi'an (I live in a "smaller" southern city of 5 million..with no mexican food options), I wanted to let you know there is Tex-Mex in Xi'an! It is called Pete's Tex-Mex (sometimes called Peter's Tex-Mex). It is located in the Yanta District of Xi'an. Hope y'all are able to go while your there!
Enjoy every minute of China. It is an beautiful country with even more beautiful and amazing people. Praying for y'all!
Erika Slaughter says
What a great little routine it is!!! Sounds perfect! So glad things are going well!!
Brittany Medland says
So nice to see a family of 5! I'm sure you cannot wait to get home to your own beds! I love Smiths "third child grumpy face!" Haha.
Chic Coastal Living says
All my love to you and your family! You are truly blessed and I love seeing all of these pictures! XOXO
Amber says
Thanks for the update! I'm going to pray specifically for your precious smith! Those boys love their Mamas! Praying he adjusts well…and I'm sure he will because you are doing sn amazing job!!! ❤️
Carolyn Laskaj says
So happy for you guys! Ashby is one lucky girl. As you too are lucky. Can't wait until she's smiling in pictures once she's used to the change. Praying for all of you!
Betsy Maddox says
Oh my word….the CUTENESS of that video!!! That is just the sweetest thing ever. And you definitely CAN make a routine out of anything. I love that too. Kids really need it. It sounds like so far, so good! Praying it continues! xoxo
Michele @ The Joyful Home says
She is just precious, and how much fun that you can all experience this together!
Erin Friedman says
Oh my goodness!! That little laugh!! So sweet. Thank you for sharing all this!!! Love 'following' along on your journey!!! Wishing you safe travels back to the U.S. with your precious little girl!! 🙂
lorisavage says
That video and those giggles are priceless! Sweet Smith – glad you are such a great mama and recognize his need for a little extra "mommy and Smith time!"I've been showing my kids your blog everyday and they love seeing all of the places you have visited! Thanks for sharing your journey with us!
Tara G. says
🙂 I'd make that super big if I could!
Anonymous says
Oohh! Shay thank you for the adorable video of your girls playing together! Heartwarming!
And my heart goes out to your little boy, smith. He was the one I was thinking about this whole time cause he's still pretty little trying to process this whole thing. You're a good mother to recognize that he needs your special attention. It'll all work out but I'm praying for it to be as smooth as possible. I just adore your beautiful little family!!
Sheaffer {Pinterest Told Me To} says
God Bless the anonymous angel who just told you where to get some Tex Mex! Loved everything about this post. I've probably watched the video at least 10 times since yesterday, and I'm so happy that Ashby is warming up to all of you. And I will now be saying extra prayers for sweet Smith. I actually thought about Smith last night, and it makes total sense that he would be having a hard time with all of this change. When y'all get home, we will have Smith over for some special play dates for sure! I want to love on that boy! Now go find Pete's and EAT A TACO!!!!
Kathy Olson says
I've been praying for you – especially about the flight home. Love to you all!
Hilary Jose says
Yay 🙂 my daughter was born June 8th, 2012, and it will be really fun having my favorite blog reads feature a daughter the same age as mine. Congratulations again to your family. Thanks for sharing it all!
Diana says
Congrats to the Shull family of 5! Praise God for giggles!!
Tamara @ The Workout Mama says
I have loved reading these posts!!!! Ashby is the same age as Caden 🙂 She is adorable Shay! Your updates have been so heartfelt and raw. Be safe with your family and I will be praying for easy travels home.
xoxo, Tamara
Walker Crew says
So incredibly excited for you all! Love seeing pictures and following your adventure! Prayers from the Walker crew!
Taeryn Bemont says
So heartwarming to see you United with your precious little Ashby! Sending you best wishes from London for the next few months while you settle in as a family of five!
The Mommy says
I never comment, but just wanted to let you know that all of you are in my prayers. Praying for all of the kids as they adjust, for traveling safety and that when the honeymoon phase ends, God will give you the strength that you need.
Narci says
Those warriors are amazing! And, I am so glad you have a good routine going! Love you!
Dana Vissage says
That video makes me smile so big! Kensington is a wonderful big sister and Ashby's laugh is precious!! So, so happy for you all, Shay! Praying for you all!
Lindsay Dunagan says
Love the sweet video of Kensington and Ashby's giggles!!! Thanks for sharing with us!!
Maggie says
I have always thought one of the sweetest sounds in the world is a laughing child. I LOVE that video of the sisters 🙂 What a blessing.
Such a sweet family and legacy you're building. I pray God continues to keep you all safe and healthy!
Morgan Hammons says
Can't get enough of your stories!! Thanks for keeping us updated! And I'm so glad everything is going well!!
Anonymous says
Great post Shay. From a momma who has been waiting 22 months for her child and still has a way to go, I am loving reading about your journey. Praying for you all as you adjust to a new normal. Adoption is beautiful and hard. Thank you for sharing…it is helping me so much!
Bri Bliss says
I am so happy for your & your family! I've been looking forward to these posts & you've been on my mind often. I'm also LOVING seeing Ashby's outfits because my daughter is 2 1/2 as well & they definitely share the same style 🙂 Good luck on the rest of your stay!
Andrea says
So happy for you and your family! Wishing you all the best 🙂
April Parrish says
Looks like things are adjusting well for everyone. Continued prayers for all in this beautiful journey the Lord has provided for you!
April 🙂
http://www.lifeinbucklesberry.blogspot.com
Anonymous says
Thanks so much for the update, I've been watching for one! Love hearing about China and how things are going. I have no doubt you will handle whatever comes with grace and strength! Such an adorable family….Best of luck in the days ahead and I hope you get to come home soon! Your family must be dying to meet Ashby!
Jan Fisher
Angela Ellingson says
Love love love the updates!!! Thank you for sharing!
Anonymous says
I truly enjoy following your journey…so happy for your family. Who takes all the photos of you guys together as a family?
Jeanie says
I enjoyed all the photos and was enthralled with Muslim Street. Loved the video with all the laughter.
Laci Murray says
This has been an incredible story to follow! Adoption is so wonderful and we are back in the US praying for your family of five to make it home safe and sound.
Tracy says
Love the laughter!
Jamers says
Hearing Ashby giggle on the bed with big sis jumping brought tears to my eyes! She is so happy and so lucky to have a big sis!
So amazing that you have the opportunity for your kids to see so much of the world as well!! I want to see those warriors now!
Allison F says
I love it! My littlest peanut (he's really more of a cannon ball) is 6.09.14! And she is only a week off from my biggest peanut, also 2 1/2! It's a GREAT age!!! Whoop whoop for June 9th! Thanks for the update – I love seeing everything. The video is precious. What a sweet family! I will say a prayer that the honeymoon phase lasts long enough to get back home to McKinney!
Gavan says
Shay, so thankful for your blog posts on your journey with Ashby. Love checking to see if you've updated…..makes my heart happy!! Prayers for a continued smooth journey and also continued prayers for your big kiddos as they adjust to a new sibling, especially Smith since he isn't the baby anymore!
Melody
Jenna says
I'm so happy for all of you! Ashby is a lucky little lady to be a part of your loving family and I know that you all feel lucky to have sweet little Ashby join your family. Middle child syndrome kicks in quick doesn't it?! I had my third last January and I swear her youngest brother jumped into that role as soon as we walked in the door with the new baby (maybe even a few weeks before). Everything falls into place 🙂
Ronda Petrin says
The kids are sow sweet together. I'm so happy for your family on this journey! Can't wait to read more and more.
Catherine says
Congratulations Shull family – I'm a long time reader but I've never commented. My brother has adopted children from Ethiopia so I am always interested in reading about the adoption process. Their first adoption (a son, adopted at age 1) took 4 years. I hope your time together continues to go very smoothly.
I also especially loved this post because I've spent time in China and really enjoyed Xi'an – I'm an art historian so the terracotta warriors were on my bucket list!
Keisha Dawson says
The video of Kensington and Ashby is too precious! Praying that you all have a wonderful time the rest of the time you are in China. What a special time for each of you!
Anonymous says
The pics and videos of all 5 are so sweet. Glad you have this time for the 5 to spend time together and have fun. Congratulations to all 5. Sending kind wishes.
Anonymous says
Thank you for sharing your adoption process with all of us. What incredible journey God has guided you on. I continue to pray for you. I think it's wonderful that you are all able to be in China together…. Kensington reading to Ashby as Andrew looks on. Is precious. I enjoy seeing pictures and reading.
Christene Amy
http://dancingwithhopeandlove.blogspot.com
Tammy Twiner says
Shay – I know don't know you personally (long time reader) but I will feel SO relieved when you guys return home! Thankful you guys are doing well though! Thank you for sharing your journey –
Anonymous says
Absolutely love your blog and your family! Congrats on the adoption!
Monica says
Ashby is precious! Prayers to you and your family for a smooth transition.
Keith and Brittany says
Beautiful family!!!!! So glad you were able to see the terra cotta warriors….when I was in China that def was my favorite also. It is so incredible hearing the history behind them!!! Praying for your transition and eventually flight home and adjusting back into the new normal. She is one lucky lady and you and Andrew are amazing parents to all three of your kiddos!!!!
Becky says
Sounds like things are going well. Routines are always a good thing, especially when adding a new child. When my son and his wife were there, they loved some type of oranges they would get from street vendors. They have always fed their kids a lot of fruits and veggies knowing that if they returned, they are plentiful and safe to eat. Keep on enjoying! Love seeing the pictures of all of you. (At least you haven't had to endure bug cuisine at the home of a student) 🙂
Liz/ says
That video is the sweetest thing ever…hearing Ashby and Kensington laugh and have so much fun was too cute to watch! So glad everything is going so well for all 5 of you! Sweet Smith…little guy is going to get used to this new routine soon enough! Hugs to all!
The Yarbrough's says
Oh my gosh….an accident?! I would have been a basket-case of emotions. Sounds like ya'll are doing great. So happy for ya'll!!!
Margie says
Glad to hear you are safe and no one was hurt. That is so scary, especially in a foreign country! I also love that you are sharing these travel and cultural experiences with your readers. Not many people are able to travel or have many misconceptions about it and you are helping to expose people to many wonderful cultures and benefits of travel. I love that!
stacey says
I cant read these posts without tearing up! What a blessing you are to sweet Ashby and she is to you. Adoption has been on my heart for a while now and I am just waiting for clarity from God! You said Ashby was 'found'. can you elaborate on that more? Can you tell us more of her story? Birth parents?
Michelle says
That sweet little giggle was music to my ears! Ashby is beautiful and I have loved following your journey! Doesn't matter what language you speak, all giggles/laughs sound the same!
Sandy P says
You need to read this Magic Treehouse book http://coverart.textbookrush.com/large/515/1-9780679890515.jpg Day of the Dragon King to the kids. My 7 year old was reading it last week. I only listened to her read about 2 pages, but it was obviously about the terra cotta warriors. The pictures you posted look very much like the one drawing I saw in the book.
Jenny says
I am loving all these updates! That video of the girls giggling is awesome!!! 🙂
Christine S says
Love the video! It must have been beyond words the first time you heard Ashby laugh like that. So touching.
Paige @ Reasons to Come Home says
I've been checking daily for your post and I'm just so thankful to be able to follow along. Thank you for blogging this journey! As the middle child in a family with a younger adopted sibling, I understand poor Smith's frustration. Praying that things smooth out soon for him!
Erin Stinson says
I have been reading your blog and following your family's journey since Sean was on the Bachelor a few years ago. No blog posts have warmed my heart and put tears in my eyes like the last few posts about your journey with Ashby. Seeing that short video of her laughing with Kensington was so special. Praying for many many blessings upon you and your family.
Shayna Bonney says
The video melted my heart. Those sweet laughs! Nothing better. Love following your journey of adopting sweet Ashby, brings joy to my heart! Thanks for sharing everything! Many blessings to you all! ~Shayna
Sandra Litcher says
Love, love, love the video! What a sweet giggle! Glad to hear things are going well!
Anonymous says
Loved reading an update about your time in China. I've read so much about the Terracotta Warriors and think its so cool that you got to see them!! Thanks for sharing pictures! And I get the feeling that Smith will be alright 🙂 It just takes some time to get used to not being the youngest anymore! I'm sure he's homesick as well! You guys are awesome! Continued safe travels, blessings, and fun during your trip!!!
Rebecca Jo says
I think we're all glad that God gave Ashby a sister too 🙂 Pure entertainment 🙂 That sweet laughter
DetroitDuchess says
Their laughter is so sweet! I'm glad to hear that everything is safe after the fender bender.
When we were in Athens our bus drive got into a little fender bender and proceeded to get out and yell at the other driver. When he came back he told us it was "Just a little kiss."
I love reading about your trip and the adoption, I can't wait to hear more.
Whitney says
Thank you so much for sharing your journey! Your family is beautiful. God is Good!
Adrienne says
Oh my! What is a sweeter sound than baby belly laughs!?
Jill says
Oh my goodness! The video of K & Ashby on the bed is adorable! So happy you're all doing so well!
Kristie Parken says
My husband and I are from the Dallas area also. We adopted our son from China and brought him home almost a year ago. It has been the most amazing and wonderful year.
I am so happy for your family.
Kristie Parken says
My husband and I are from the Dallas area also. We adopted our son from China and brought him home almost a year ago. It has been the most amazing and wonderful year.
I totally know what you are feeling about the Tex-mex. It's all I wanted while we were there, that and a Dr. Pepper.
So happy for your family.
Anonymous says
Saying prayers for sweet Smith William and his transition into big brotherhood. God's blessing on your sweet family.
Jaclyn Johnson says
Hi Shay! I was anxiously awaiting a blog update so I'm so happy that I saw a new post! The video of Kensington and Ashby giggling is PRICELESS!! Thanks for sharing w/us, SO nice to hear your newest addition laugh and giggle with her big sister, such a sweet connection already those two have! Smith will find his way too I'm sure once you're back home and around familiar surroundings and he can get excited to show his new little sister all of his toys 😉 Good luck with the rest of your trip and I'll keep praying that things go smoothly for all of you over there. Can't wait for the next post already! Xo
Sarah Shaneyfelt says
I'm loving these updates!! Praying for your family and adjustment time!
Jen says
I just came across your blog. I have two kidos from Xi'an and we love it there – we are a family of six. Just out of curiosity which orphanage is your daughter from? My daughter is from Xianyang SWI and my son is from Wienan SWI. Both are about an hour or so outside of Xi'an but we met both of our children in the same civil affairs office that you met your daughter. And I have to ask…Do you have Sherry as your guide? Praying for your family and that your adjustment goes well. You may see a documentary soon that has our family and two others in it. It is about the journey of our adoption and how God has changed our lives through adoption. Blessings to your family! Here is the trailer for the documentary if you want to take a look: http://vimeo.com/111384677
yakim says
So blessed by your blog! God bless you, Andrew, Kensington, Smith and Ashby!!
Anonymous says
I've been reading along and praying for your family and your adoption journey for so long. It is so wonderful to finally see Ashby together with all of you! She is just precious! God is so good!! I will continue praying for your family as you all adjust to your new normal. Also as a fellow Texan, I can't imagine not having Tex-Mex for that long haha Hope you find a taco soon!
Brooke says
You may have already answered this but did you guys give her the name Ashby London? Love your blog and you guys look wonderful as a family of 5!
Sara says
Long time follower, first time commenting: I have loved reading about this journey and your adoption of Ashby. Sounds like you're in a good routine for now. I also really want the gray dress Ashby is wearing for my little girl. Where is it from?
Best wishes!
Sara says
Long time follower, first time commenting: I have loved reading about this journey and your adoption of Ashby. Sounds like you're in a good routine for now. I also really want the gray dress Ashby is wearing for my little girl. Where is it from?
Best wishes!
Anonymous says
Just letting you know that there is no such language as "Chinese". The language you're probably thinking of is mandarin. Just thought you should know since you are raising a new child.
Melanie says
I can't imagine how anxious you are to get home, hang in there! Oh my that video is precious, there is nothing like a couple sweet little girls giggling:)
Anonymous says
Hi shay, I've been following your blog since the last year all the way from India! Although you're from a different culture, country than me, I can really relate to you, being a mom of two and love reading about your cute little kiddos…. What I love about your blog is the cheerful and positive vibe I get whenever I read it. Last year I really got into blog hopping but yours is only one of the couple I've kept up with. Reading about ashby just teared me up. All the best to you and your family.:)
Luv, Aparna
Mandi Moore says
So exciting! It's finally here, family of FIVE!! Congrats to you guys! Do you know how yummy Mi Cocina is going to be when you guys get back! lol Safe travels!
Mom to 4 J's says
Love the video of the girls!! Oh my word, did you see the comment that there is Tex-Mex in Xi'an???? You need to snatch that up quick!!
Rachael says
I wish I could send some of your yummy recipes right over to you guys! 🙂
I love all the updates! Praying for Smith's sweet little heart right now and that the Lord will minister to him even at this young age and use this for His glory.
Jaren says
Oh my gosh! I loved hearing her laugh! What an awesome moment! She's around the same age as my Macy Paige. Glad y'all are doing so well. I look forward to every single update and have shown my husband too. He had tears the other night reading your post.
Jessamyn says
Love that sweet little video! They are going to have so much fun together – and praise God they have a boy in the family too…girls need boys to remind them to get a little dirty! Excited for you to have your first summer baby; what fun birthday parties she'll get to have!!
Anonymous says
Hi Shay!
I have been reading your blog for almost a year now! I have traveled to China as well and I am totally enjoying getting to look at all your pictures! I traveled to Beijing, Xi'an, Shanghai and Hong Kong. By far one of my favorite places in the world! Enjoy the rest of your trip! God bless you and your beautiful family.
Jenn A.
Anonymous says
I admire both your choice to adopt and your embracing of different cultures. Your family is beautiful inside & out.
Safe travels
Anonymous says
Dear Shay,
I have been reading your blog for a long time and I just wanted to say how happy I am for you guys! Ashby is just the cutest and so are the other two!! Congrats on everything! You really deserve it! My family has always been interested in adoption and you really put the icing on the cake for us, so I just wanted to say thank you! Really for everything!
Xoxo
The McIntires says
Our little one started struggling when we flew south to GZ. Changing hotels was too much for her. Praying that transition goes smoothly for A!
Meagan Ruse says
That laugh! How precious! Fount sure loves your blog posts. He misses Smith! Praying for your family, especially tomorrow!
kimmie says
I have absolutely loved following your adoption story! What an amazing and blessed journey you have been on! You truly have Gods favor shining down on your family…what an awesome testimony you guys are! Congratulations on precious Ashby and best of wishes on the rest of your trip. I know you will be so ready to start your new routine back home as a family of 5! Thanks for sharing your life….so inspiring!!
Colleen Sullivan says
Shay I've been reading for a little over a year know, and as much as I always love reading your blog, I am really really interested in hearing about this new journey 🙂 I'm so happy for you all and Ashby too — that sweet girl is so lucky to have you and your family in her life now. God bless!
Paula says
Sounds like every thing is going so well! Praise God! Thankful for His mercies! I am praying all passports & such goes through without a hitch!
Tonya says
Thank you for sharing your whole story over the years. Your family is beautiful and I am so happy that Ashby is now with all of you, together as a family.
Your blog is the first thing I read everyone morning with my coffee.
Tonya
Mrs. Mody says
Congratulations on your little Ashby. What a doll. She sure seems to be content with your husband! I thought it was interesting that today I looked at a wall hanging in my son's room from Land of Nod-an alphabet print with a travel place for each letter. Xi'an was the letter "X". I thought it was so cool to see that. We ordered it to hopefully inspire our son to love to travel. Maybe you might order it for a different reason! It is called "World Alphabet Canvas Art":
http://www.landofnod.com/ive-got-the-whole-world-in-my-room-wall-art/f398
Elizabeth Birenbaum says
Thank you for sharing your story! I've loved reading it and I love how raw and real you are. I know there are obviously some details that you can't share but thank you for sharing what you can. So, so happy for you and your family!
Anonymous says
That video is awesome! Ashby's laugh is just precious. Does she understand or speak any English?
Melody Lietzau says
I'm absolutely loving all the sweet pictures. I met your brother and sister in law at the premiere on Monday as was more excited to tell them what a fan of yours I was and that i could not wait to hear what province Ashby was from. We adopted our sweet girl from China as well. I just love your blog. I have been reading for years and when you announced you were adopting I was like oh my goodness this girl and I need to be friends lol. Then you announced you were in China and I about passed out. Everyones experience is so different so don't be worried about the honeymoon stage. Also i had two boys when we adopted and my youngest son reacted the same as smith. Just like every stage of parenting it will work itself out. Your a great mom who constantly gives her kids up to the Lord. Can't wait to hear more. God Bless
Anonymous says
Sweetest video!! Thanks for sharing your story and keeping us updated, I love hearing about your journey
Anonymous says
That video is precious!! You have a beautiful family, thank you for sharing your journey with us!
Sonia says
Hey Shay! It is 10:45pm here in California and I just realized you and your family must be visiting the orphanage right now or might've already been–Just said some Hail Mary prayers for you and your family and the orphanage that all is going/ went well!!! Xoxo.
Anonymous says
Beautiful Family!!! So happy and excited for you and your family and for Ashby! She is so adorable and I love her name:) I especially enjoyed this blog because I recently traveled to China for a mission trip and we traveled to 6 different cities in China and Xi'an was one of them. The city wall is great and so are the Terracotta Warriors! We have 3 adopted children in my family, two from China and one from Korea, so your adoption journey is very interesting to me. 🙂 I hope the rest of y'all's trip goes smoothly and God's Blessing to your family!
Aubrey says
1) That video made me smile so much. 2) Your "baby" is more than a year older than my "baby." For some reason I wasn't expecting that. I naively assumed Annie and Ashby would be the same age. 3) Sounds like Ashby fits right in with the Shull crew — she'll be a world traveler before we know it! Any chance you can get that girl over here to England before April? 😉
Denise Ross says
Hi Shay. I'm loving the photos of your time in China adopting Ashby. I could see by Smiths body language he is in a adjustment phase, poor little pumpkin. My youngest son does that too, tho is a little older when I get caught up doing things and he wants me to sit with him and WATCH his movie or show with him and not leave. It's a hard juggle, but I know my time is limited with hi and these precious days so I'm trying to be intentional with spending time with him Doing what he wants. I can see you're in the same bind. He'll find his groove eventually. Hugs and prayers as you travel this road.
Hugs from Australia
Anonymous says
Thank you so much for sharing your story! I really enjoy following it. Ashby is truly blessed to have been adopted into such a loving family! I wish you all the best as you continue your journey 🙂
Valerie says
Congrats on your China Doll! We adopted our little girl at 2 1/2 from China. We spent 2 weeks in Guangzhou since she was in an orphanage near there. We ate at Starbucks, subway and at a place called Lucy's in Guangzhou that had some American food choices.
I will pray for your continued journey. I live in Allen, Tx and I know several families who have adopted from China and would love to be a resource for you in the months to come. We have experienced all you are going through. Be safe and enjoy taking in the culture.
Jessica Wu says
She is home <3
Jessica Wu says
She is home <3