Written by Kate Boyd

We hope everyone is off to a great start in your 2005 year! In the past year the China Team has had the pleasure of helping over 200 families travel to China to forever unite with their children. While the majority of the children were infant and toddler girls, we were excited to bring home several boys and even a handful of older toddler to school-aged children. The CCAA continues to work diligently to serve children and families. The current time frame from dossier submission to referral continues to be approximately 5½-6 months with travel approximately 6-8 weeks after accepting referral. Family applications have been coming in by leaps and bounds so 2005 looks to be just as if not more exciting of a year!

In 2004 the China Team has had the privilege of growing and welcoming new Coordinators to the Team. Nikki Bilderback joined us in June 2004, coming on strong with a passion for adoption and an eye for detail. It feels as if Nikki has been part of the FTIA family for years! Nicole Simpson also joined FTIA in the Fall 2004. With her own special connection to adoption and a real zest for life, Nicole has really stepped in whole-heartedly and will serve those families she is working with well. Charlene Drake is our newest member of the China Team. With her experience in therapy and writing for those who have suffered infertility and perinatal loss Charlene brings an extra insight to those who may have faced such challenges. Tina Ji, Assistant Director of FTIA was a part of the China Program from its earliest days and continues to play a vital role overseeing the program. Joshua Cheng and Kate Boyd have both been with the China Program for several years and continue in their roles as Senior Coordinators. Both have the special privilege of working directly with families as well as taking a more administrative roll in overseeing the daily goings on of the program. Holly Stahl also continues to provide vital support to the China Program, both interacting with families and also emphasizing on the paperwork details and daily paperwork processing. With her compassion and understanding, Maury Reising has helped to coordinate and really grow the Waiting Children Program more and more each year. With regret, we say good-bye to Renee Thweat-Smith who departed FTIA very recently. She has served families well and we wish her the very best in her life adventures. While Renee will most definitely be missed, the China Team continues to be very strong, with each team member bringing a wonderful dynamic to the team. We are all thrilled to have the privilege working with families to unite with their children.

Gong Xi Fa Cai! (Happy New Year in Mandarin) Gung Hay Fat Choy! ("Best wishes, good fortune and have a prosperous New Year!" in Cantonese) The Lunar New Year falls on February 9th this year. The Chinese New Year is always a fun and festive time. Celebrations can often be found hosted by local support groups, Chinese Culture Associations and even local restaurants. This is a wonderful time to explore a festive piece of your child's culture. We hope everyone seeks out a local celebration and we wish everyone all the best in the Year of the Rooster!

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