Destination Taiwan: Destination Tyler

Destination Taiwan
Destination Tyler
Destination Dream Come True......

Holy moly, its almost time. Our departure is imminent & we stand excited and eager to finally hold in our arms this little man than swept into our lives and has captivated our waking dreams for months now. It feels almost surreal to think that in a few short days we will meet this new love and discover all the wonder that is Tyler. Throughout our wait, we have been blessed with updates, photos and videos. So much more to document his early months than we have for our daughter, but still only snippets, moments and glimpses of who he is.

This past week my thoughts have turned often to that very thought and I (we) am/are bursting with joy at the thought of this amazing time of discovery ahead of us. Does he have a favorite lovey or toy? What words or gestures comfort this baby boy in the night or during fussy times? Is he shy with strangers or eager to explore? What will his tiny fingers, soft baby cheeks and whisper fine hair feel like next to mine? To smell his delicious baby scent and and watch his face light up in a toothless grin.........to wipe his tears & change his diaper. Does he splash and play in the bath? Clap his hands & giggle when something tickles him? Does he know how often he was thought of and missed? And loved? And dreamt of?

We have missed so many little things and firsts and yet I celebrate in all the many discoveries we have yet to share in! In a very real sense I feel like he has always been a part of our family; a part that lay undiscovered until the day his tiny beautiful face graced our computer screen. And on that day 5 1/2 months ago it was not surprise or circumspect that I felt; instead it was a feeling of familiarity and bliss...........oh yes, here you are my little one; I have been waiting for you. We have been waiting for you........

SO, with much more drama than I intended, I dedicate this final post before our journey to Taiwan to Tyler Pei-En for capturing our hearts, imaginations and minds. To Lauren for bringing such joy, light, love & laughter to each day that we waited and each day before before that too; and for showing us what was possible all along. To Scott for his support, love and patience throughout. ( I wasn't always easy to live with during the delays....lol...) And for his optimism which was not always easy for him. To our folks/families for being the best parents, grandparents, Aunts/Uncles, cousins we could hope for; for all the unconditional support & love given to us throughout. And to all of you.......for sharing in this amazing ride from beginning to end! For each email, note, phone call, blog comment or visit that bolstered our spirits and kept us sane........thank you, thank you!

AND please don't think this is it.........of course I will be blogging from Taiwan ( fingers crossed) and sharing more of the journey when we return home. So you guys are not off the hook yet :) lol.....and of course I will continue to follow all of your journeys too!!

Finally, to add some levity to what has morphed into a serious and emotional post for me.....how does that happen?? Thought I would share some pics. I took a week ago when we were just starting to make some packing piles. It sort of offers an interesting peek into the minds of this household!! Take a look at what we all thought would be essentials for Tyler while in Taiwan.

This is my initial pile. Please note the practical medicines, basics & clothing & Lexi book. :)

These are Lauren's selections: books, 'lil brother' onesie, Robeez( shoes!!) and toys! She actually did great & of course you can see her love of the shoes! Also note how she used this photo op moment to enjoy the crib once again. lol

And this pile? Yep, its Scott's. Those are his contributions.....lol..... kinda puts it all in perspective, huh?!

Next stop........Taiwan!! Yahooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo! See ya all there!!