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Thanks for visiting our guestbook!(This is an open guestbook. Please feel free to add an entry to the guestbook for others to read.)IF YOU DON'T SEE YOUR ENTRY AFTER ADDING -- PLEASE CLICK ON RELOAD/REFRESH Click here to sign the guestbook. Click here to go back to the main page. Nancy--You have been on my mind so very often. I would like to talk to you--just me and you. I have so many things going on in my head and maybe you can help me. I sometimes wish I could trade places with you. I love Mike so much. He was my "buddy" growing up. I love you so very much too. Please call me at 424-2468 or email me at msd1119@hotmail.com. Susie Distler <msd1119@hotmail.com> Evansville, IN US - Thursday, June 19, 2008 0:29 AM CDT Hey Shila and Andy, Alex is sooooo cute! I'm sure Cassie will be just as adorable. Congratulations to you!! ami saraiya <ami@radiantdarling.com> - Tuesday, May 9, 2006 3:33 PM CDT Dear Alex, How lucky you are to have a baby sister! Congratulations to all of you....Alex, Mommy, and Daddy. And enjoy your trip to Columbia. Love, Chris and Lynn Schrader Chris Schrader <lynnchris@aol.com> Lansdowne, VA USA - Wednesday, April 12, 2006 9:17 AM CDT Dear Alex, Congratulations on getting a baby sister! What a great big brother you will be! Love Grandma Sharon Fox River Grove , IL USA - Thursday, March 30, 2006 9:59 PM CST Dear Alex, I had a great time with you visiting the McDonald's in Crystal Lake with the train car and the playground. Remember what you promised about talking to me on the phone and using the potty! Love Grandma Sharon Fox River Grove, IL U.S.A. - Tuesday, February 7, 2006 3:52 PM CST Dear Alex, Grandma loved the trip to Brookfield Zoo in September with you and Mommy. You and your folks are the joy of my heart. Love Grandma Sharon Fox River Grove, IL USA - Tuesday, November 1, 2005 1:34 PM CST Alex looks like a beatiful child I am so happy for you and Andy Jeff Stogsdill <JStogsdill@levybooks.com> - Tuesday, September 28, 2004 2:25 PM CDT It's wonderful to hear you are enjoying your little one. He is so cute. I can see how he brightens your life. Best wishes to all of you Gayle Nolan - Friday, September 24, 2004 12:02 AM CDT Hi Shila & Andy: Congratulations to you On this one year anniversery since you brought Alex into your and our lives. Indeed we are blessed. He is such a bundle of joy and we could'nt have asked for more! We wish you all the best! Proud Grand Parents, Aparna & Shila <pksaragur@aol.com> Flossmoor, IL USA - Thursday, September 16, 2004 5:44 PM CDT What a surprise. Congratulations to you and your family. Just so you know, I have 10 grandchildren and my daughter isn't married yet. You and your friends always used to kid me on how many grandchildren I have. Let them all know. Hope all is well with everyone. You know I did retire four years ago but only for four months. I'm still there as a consultant working two days a week and in my 46th year with the company. Great hearing from you. Take good care of Alex and enjoy him while you can, the years really do fly by. God bless. Bob Mardo <ramardo@cox.net> Cumberland, R.I. - Thursday, September 16, 2004 11:47 AM CDT He's beautiful! Every time I think of your family, I smile. Congrats on a great journey, year, future. Our best, Lisa Ackerman and family (Lisa, Yuri, Xandar & Sophie) Lisa Ackerman <lzyhylij@hotmail.com> Chicago, il usa - Tuesday, September 14, 2004 7:30 AM CDT Hey,Shila...the photos of Andy just overwhelmed me. He is so serious and yet so precious. Two so deserving souls crossed the path of each other. Life is a mystery and there is so much more to it than what we perceive on the surface. You are so truly blessed with Alex as he is with you. Prayer For Protection "The Light of God Surrounds Us, The Love of God Enfolds Us, The Power of God Protects Us, and the Presence of God Watches Over Us. Wherever we are, God is. And So It Is." Isn't life grand? Pam Nelson <Pnelson@levybooks.com> - Monday, September 13, 2004 10:34 AM CDT Alex is more beautiful every day. He is a charming and good natured baby. I've never known a family more meant to be together than the 3 of you. Let's get together soon so I can get my fill of "Alex time." Jana Fruh <janafruh@juno.com> Woodridge, IL - Monday, September 13, 2004 8:53 AM CDT I can't believe a year has past in the blink of an eye. Enjoy each and every day with Alex. Love, Justine Justine Willis <jwillis@levybooks.com> Hyannis, MA USA - Monday, September 13, 2004 7:26 AM CDT Congratulations on making it through the first year!! Wish we could see you guys more often. Tom and Tracie Garvens <tgarvens@wans.net> Austin, TX - Sunday, September 12, 2004 4:00 PM CDT Come Esta Alexander. MIOS DIOS. or DIOS MIOS. Tu es muy grande muchacho. Ok that is the end of the spanish class. He looks adorable and and I see mischief in his big black eyeballs. Need to get together soon and share baby stories. Ciao..........Indy, Manjit, Kabir, Jed & Tipsy Indy Dhillon <dhilloni@adelphia.net> - Saturday, September 11, 2004 11:31 PM CDT LOVE the website and the ADORABLE pictures of Alex and his loving family! We can't wait for Maya to just get a little bigger so she can really start playing with Alex! See you soon! Erika, Todd & Maya Oak Park, IL Erika G. Baldonado <loolabell98@yahoo.com> Oak Park, IL United States - Saturday, September 11, 2004 5:06 PM CDT hI! gLAD HE FEELING BETTER.tHANKS FOR THE B.CARD AND THE NOTE. MISS YOU . MAGGGIE HARRISON HILLSIDE , IL COOK - Friday, April 16, 2004 1:04 PM CDT Hi, I’ve been thinking about you guys and had to take the time to check your site. What an adorable little guy. We have to get together very soon. I’d like to meet him before he starts Collage. Miss you! Lori Zak sends her best and agrees he's adorable!!! Anna Ramos-Ortiz <Aramos-ortiz@levybooks.com> Cicero, IL - Friday, March 12, 2004 2:56 PM CST He's gorgeous! Congratulations :) Carrie (http://www.familybound.com/blog) Carrie CA - Wednesday, March 10, 2004 0:21 AM CST Hi! Missed you .Enjoyed reading about your son. maggie harrison Hillside , Il - Friday, January 30, 2004 1:54 PM CST Okay, we'll bite. What is he integrating with??! When can Alex come over and play? We want to show him all our new toys. We'd even be willing to share some of our Superhero guys with him, especially Robin! Michael, Joey, and Tony <momofiii@yahoo.com> Schaumburg, IL - Sunday, December 28, 2003 2:19 PM CST Hi Shila, Andy, & Alex! I couldn't resist to popping online to send a little note. I have fell in love with Alex! He obviously has fallen in love with Auntie Char as well since he couldn't keep his eyes off of me at lunch the last time. Then he very comfortably fell asleep in my arms and was so content! I'm sorry that I'm married and won't be able to commit to marrying Alex, but I will commit to being his Auntie and embrace his life with enthusiasm! I will very much enjoy helping Alex to see life through his own eyes and create his own points of view about everything with careful guidance of right & wrong. I look forward to a night of babysitting any time you and Andy would like to get out. I will even be tolerant of the 100 phone calls from your cell phone to check up on the little guy! I love you Alex!! You too Shi-Wa & Andy! Love Auntie Cha-Witt Char Maywald <chargroup14@sbcglobal.net> Algonquin, IL USA - Thursday, December 4, 2003 10:37 AM CST OK, WHY aren't there pictures of Halloween or the first haircut yet?!?! It happened a week ago!!!! Andy?! Colleen <cmclain823@aol.com> Ashburn, VA USA - Tuesday, November 11, 2003 9:02 PM CST Dear Shila, Andy, and Alex, He is darling! What a cutie! I used to write all of Richard's milestones in the wall calendar. I have saved two calendars so far. He sounds like he won't be one of those babies that has trouble because he needs "tummy time". His muscles are just fine, thank you. Congratulations on your beautiful bundle. Courtenay Deniston <courtenaydeniston317@msn.com> Oro Valley, AZ USA - Monday, November 10, 2003 12:11 AM CST Shila, thanks for spending so much time talking to me on the phone today. I so enjoyed your website and had tears in my eyes as I viewed your first time meeting little Alex. Congratulations to the three of you, you are a beautiful family. We can't wait for our day to finally meet our baby in Colombia. Hope it will be soon. THanks again and congrats again. Margaret Osler Margaret Osler <josler@rochester.rr.com> Fairport, NY USA - Wednesday, October 29, 2003 2:52 PM CST Glad to hear that the little man with the long name is doing so well. He's in great hands! We are so happy for you all! Pamela Kleinman <pamela_kleinman@yahoo.com> Twinsburg, OH USA - Friday, October 10, 2003 12:34 AM CDT Thank you for taking orders so well, and finally updating the journal, and adding more pictures! Glad to hear that Alex wasn't waiting to see me again before he rolled over! Colleen <cmclain823@aol.com> Ashburn, VA - Tuesday, September 23, 2003 11:18 AM CDT Wow. I think I just read a book going through all these e-mails. Andy and Shila, congratulations on your new addition and on your safe return back home. Hope that I am around when you come into the office to show him off. John Ruff <jruff@levybooks.com> Chicago, IL - Thursday, September 11, 2003 11:18 AM CDT Oh Shila!! Oh Andy!! Oh Alex!! What a wonderful experience you had! He is a doll and we can't wait to meet him! Laura, Bill and Ella - Thursday, September 11, 2003 9:37 AM CDT Congratulations!!!!! He is a very very cute baby. I'm so happy for you guys. Glad you are back. Shila we miss you here. Uncle Mo Chicago, IL - Wednesday, September 10, 2003 9:57 AM CDT I am so excited for you three!! Your entries brought back sweet memories of our two adoption trips to Colombia. It doesn't get any better than this! Congratulations, again and again! Karolyn Lewis <karolynlewis@hotmail.com> Crawfordville, FL USA - Sunday, September 7, 2003 2:00 PM CDT No words could express the happiness we feel for the both of you. You have been blessed, and each day forward you will be reminded by your precious gift... Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your new family! Paula and Matthew Nierman <threepm@comcast.net> Hawthorn Woods, IL 60047 - Friday, September 5, 2003 9:49 PM CDT Shila, Andy & Alex, Congratulations! I'm so happy for you guys, you make a beautiful family! I don't think I've ever seen a cuter picture than the one of Alex and his passport, he's precious. Thanks for sharing your experience with all of us and have a safe trip home. I can't wait to meet him in person. Marilyn Stovall <mstovall@levybooks.com> Chicago, IL US - Friday, September 5, 2003 2:21 PM CDT This post is more for those of you reading the guestbook, than for the Khan's. I just said adios to the THREE of them after spending the evening together (thanks again for dinner, guys!) here in Bogota. Alex is BEAUTIFUL, not to mention smart and talented. Among other things, he managed to ring the doorbell to my hotel room all by himself...at least that's the story his parents seem to be sticking to. Andy and Shila look like real pros already with him. What a blessing to have the chance to see Alex and spend some time together. Have a safe, uneventful (and poopy-free) flight home! Love, Auntie Colleen Colleen <cmclain823@aol.com> Bogota (for just 8 more hours), Colombia - Thursday, September 4, 2003 10:59 PM CDT I am glad this part of your journey is coming to an end and you will be coming home to the rest of your journey with Alex! You have no idea how invaluable this has been, not only for yourselves, and where it will lead to next! I wish to ask a favor - I am working with a family considering a Colombian adoption and I wondered if it might be okay for me to refer them to your website. I think it is an amazing tool into all the aspects of adoption - waiting, referral, travel, emotions, introspection, compassion, etc. I must tell you how grateful I feel having been able to work with you as a family - the experience has been extraordinary. I will give you a call in about two weeks, to let you settle in. If you would like to call for advice, to gripe, to seek relief from sleepless nights, please feel free! Enjoy and have a good trip home! Christine Spuhler <cspuhler@cradle.org> - Thursday, September 4, 2003 1:43 PM CDT Congratulations!! This is sooo exciting. I can't wait to see little Alex in real life. I absolutely love your stories & pictures, and I have been watching as closely as possible. I'm laughing one minute and tears rolling down my face the next. You have really made this a lot of fun for those of us back here at home. You guys are going to be GREAT parents. Welcome Alex, our newest addition to our family!! Have a safe trip home!! (Remember 2 carry-ons) Bert, Pat, Mackie & Tucker Mt. Prospect, IL USA - Wednesday, September 3, 2003 10:20 PM CDT Congratulations Andy, Shila & Alex on officially becoming a family!!! What great news!!! Can't wait to meet Alex! Tanya Darien, IL - Wednesday, September 3, 2003 8:19 AM CDT Alex- Today you were blessed and given the 2 most wonderful parents. I will remember this day vividly for you as being the first day of the rest of your beautiful life. Live it fully! Andy and Shila- Today I congratulate you as the proud parents of a beautiful, healthy baby boy. I will remember this day vividly for you as being the first day of the rest of your beautiful life as a family. Live it fully! Oh yeah, and get a cat. That always makes for an interesting household. "Button" Catville, IL USA - Tuesday, September 2, 2003 11:01 PM CDT WOW! I couldn't be happier for you guys! My husband and just returned home in May with our beautiful son Connor from Colombia. I have enjoyed reading your updates. I look forward to the next one. Alex is beautiful!! Best of luck! Rosa Kinard <rksmokey@peoplepc.com> Carrollton, GA USA - Tuesday, September 2, 2003 10:03 PM CDT Congratulations, Andy, Shila and Alex! What wonderful news you had today! Keep the pictures and journal entries coming. I faithfully check out your web site every day because your story is so heartwarming. Can't wait to meet Alex! Susan Ross <sross@barcoproducts.com> Geneva, IL USA - Tuesday, September 2, 2003 9:51 PM CDT HURRAY!!!! Where are you staying!??!?!?! Come here PLEASE!!! I have a dinner engagement tomorrow night, but am intentionally keeping Thursday night free for you. Auntie Colleen Bogota, Colombia - Tuesday, September 2, 2003 5:45 PM CDT Shila and Andy - Congratulations on the greatest day of your lives. I look forward to seeing Alex at LHE and I hope you have a great journey home. Nancy Robertson <nrobertson@levybooks.com> Hillside, IL LHE - Tuesday, September 2, 2003 3:15 PM CDT OK, I am HERE in COLOMBIA!! This is killing me, waiting to hear whether or not our paths will cross. I'm in room 337 here at La Fontana, so you'll know where to find me. I was hoping for a post today saying you had your sentencia....but alas, only a Sunday post right now. You need to improve on this - or do you ENJOY keeping me in suspense?!?!? Hurry up and come to Bogota!!! Colleen <cmclain823@aol.com> BOGOTA!!, Colombia - Monday, September 1, 2003 9:54 PM CDT I TOLD Andy and Shila about the "magic fountain" but apparently they were not listening! Thank you for traveling to Colombia, Colleen, and please take care of all my babies. Love Grandma S - Saturday, August 30, 2003 1:17 PM CDT Mommy & Daddy Khan: If I need to explain what "thing", then you're in more trouble than I thought! Tell that judge it is IMPERATIVE that you arrive in Bogota Tuesday for some in-depth training! Colleen <cmclain823@aol.com> 48 hours from Bogota, Colombia - Saturday, August 30, 2003 12:25 AM CDT Dear Shila, Andy and Alex - We can't wait for you to get him home safe and sound. congratulations to you and your family - we're so happy for you. Enjoy this amazing journey! Ashish & Colleen, Anisha & Anjali Kishore <ckishore@optonline.net> Greenwich, CT USA - Friday, August 29, 2003 6:54 PM CDT Colleen, what thing should we cover? Could you be more specific? Mommy and Daddy Khan - Friday, August 29, 2003 6:42 PM CDT Shila & Andy, So glad to FINALLY have another update! I was getting worried that the computer crashed and we'd never hear another funny Alex story until you were home! Your list of things learned over the weekend was funny - Mike & I both laughed about the "christening" Shila experienced. Every parent of a boy only has that happen once before learning to always KEEP THAT THING COVERED! The cool air is a guarantee for that happening. I'm getting all my last things in order for my trip, and hoping hoping hoping you will have good news about your arrival in Bogota coinciding with mine! Tell that judge Alex has someone who MUST see him in Bogota! Let me know how things are looking, and I'll continue my 5xday check of your website! Love, Colleen Colleen <cmclain823@aol.com> Ashburn, soon to be Bogota!, - Thursday, August 28, 2003 9:06 AM CDT Shila and Andy, Welcome to parenthood! What a cute little baby boy! Congratulations! Steve Mroz Geneseo, IL - Thursday, August 28, 2003 5:50 AM CDT Hey I am really enjoying this. I sent two emails did you get them? It said there were errors in pop 3. Looks like you are having FUN. Miss you. Can't wait to see you guys. If you want a belly laugh give him the rasberries on his belly, gauranteed to work. Love Aunt Kathy Kathy Schuett <grandmak@bytemeusa.com> Palatine, Ill. USA - Thursday, August 28, 2003 4:23 AM CDT Andy & Shila - Andy - I don't you very well but I have known Shila for quite a few years and I can honestly say that there is a different glow in both your eyes in these pictures, than the ones you had a few days before you left for Columbia. I am SO HAPPY that your dreams have now been realized. Alex is a beautiful child and you make a beautiful family. I can't wait to see you three in person. Janet Krey <jkrey@levybooks.com> Hoffman Estates, IL united states - Wednesday, August 27, 2003 7:05 PM CDT Shila and Andy--Welcome to parenthood! First rule with boys is to always keep his parts covered unless you want to be covered. He's beautiful. Congrats. Kim Gray Munster, IN USA - Wednesday, August 27, 2003 9:18 AM CDT Shila and Andy, It was great to catch up on all of your adventures. It sounds as if evrything is as normal as can be for a new family(that happens to be thousands of mile away from home). Thanks for sharing it all with us and we look forward to your safe journey home so that we can finally meet Alex! Best Always Mike Mike Hesselbach <Mhesselbach@levybooks.com> Aurora, IL USA - Wednesday, August 27, 2003 7:20 AM CDT Dear Andy and Shila, Can't believe how cute Alex is (I love his name!)He seems like a really happy baby (except for the cranky weekend bouts). I am addicted to your updates - it's the first thing I do when I get here after my days off. What a great adventure you are having and knowing it's all documented will be a treasure later when he is older.I just can't tell you how happy I feel for all of you - it was definitly meant to be and besides laughing all the way thru the updates, I get goosebumps looking at the pictures and descriptions. You are great parents!! Keep having fun and looking forward to meeting Alex in person when you are back!! Cathy Cadek <ccadek@levybooks.com> - Tuesday, August 26, 2003 4:31 PM CDT Dear Shila and Andy: Shila, I don't know if you remember me. I was the Grad Assistant at FAR the first year you were an RA. Susan Ross (nee Woodworth) and I ran across each other recently through a mutual friend. She sent me your website address. Congratulations on the beautiful new baby! Here's hoping he sleeps through the night sometime soon. Julie Trester <julie.trester@mbtlaw.com> Chicago, IL Cook - Tuesday, August 26, 2003 9:17 AM CDT Congratulations to you all! Alex is a beautiful baby....We're so happy for you. Colleen gave me your website. It's nice being closer. All I have to do now is get totally unpacked, so we can keep Ryan and Kelsey overnight! Chris Schrader <lynnchris@aol.com> Lansdowne, VA USA - Monday, August 25, 2003 4:30 PM CDT Dearest Shila and Andy, I just logged onto this site (thanks to Ami)and I can't tell you how happy I am for you both. Clicking through the pictures, I could imagine what your reactions must have been!This was a great idea. Alexander is so precious and adorable and so blessed that all of you are a family. We can't wait to hold him and hug him. Love, Mona,Joe,Priyanka, and Sonya Mona <msaraiya@bellsouth.net> - Monday, August 25, 2003 2:42 PM CDT Andy and Shila, Alexander is beautiful and so cute!! What an incredible joyful journey you're on. We love hearing about all of your "firsts" with your new son. We can't wait to meet him. Your prayers have been answered. Much love and joy, Paul, Kristen, Madeline and Ethan <kslink@ameritech.net> Chicago, IL USA - Monday, August 25, 2003 9:50 AM CDT Finally we're back from the beach and have internet access again (we lost our connection right after logging on to no news on Tuesday). HE IS BEAUTIFUL! It was fun reading five days of entries, and seeing 5 days of pictures. You can hear the confidence growing in your updates, and see how much more Alex is responding to you in just a few days. Mike and I could completely relate to the pictures from day 1 - we remember well the feeling of all those eyes watching as you meet the baby for the first time, watching to see how everyone would react to each other... I can't wait to see him NEXT WEEK! Hope you're on track for a return to Bogota next week. I also had a last minute panic - has WH sent Alex's info (or the Cradle) to Illinois ICPC? They need to see that (as far as I recall) before issuing your cable to the US Embassy in Bogota. I'm sure WH knows that if they do much work in Illinois, but Illinois is one of the very few states with this requirement, so just want to make sure that's been taken care of before you show up at the Embassy thinking it will all go through in a day.... Any way, love the stories (Mike hopes Andy has pictures from the pool-side fashion show, after all, he says he always reads the sports section first, and agrees that this is being respectful of athletic competition in Colombia...) and the pictures and cannot wait to see you in person. Maybe I'll bring the real estate guide from the beach with me next week so you can see where you'll be staying next August.... CONGRATULATIONS, enjoy every minute. And keep taking pictures! Love, Colleen & Mike & Ryan & Kelsey Colleen <cmclain823@aol.com> Ashburn (no longer the beach), VA - Sunday, August 24, 2003 10:16 PM CDT Hello Shila and Andy -- If Alex could talk, I believe he would have many wonderful, happy things to say. Luckily for all of us, he has the most expressive, beautiful eyes, and your pictures tell the story. He is a beautiful child, and he is blessed with loving, warm, sensitive and fun parents. Just wait until he can wink those eyes... Does Alex sleep through the night? (I don't remember reading about any 2 a.m. feedings.) Have you lost a pacifier yet? How many packages of diapers and wipes have you gone through already? :) Your life is changed forever -- you have found the greatest joy there is. Thank you for sharing your wonderful story through journal entries and photos. I'll be tuned in to your web site everyday to see new pictures of your cutie-pie and to watch how your family continues to bond. Susan Ross <sross@barcoproducts.com> Geneva, IL - Sunday, August 24, 2003 1:35 AM CDT Andy and Shila- Looks like you have a new little "button"! Please don't forget about the original one! We are thrilled for you 3 and cannot wait until we get an opportunity to meet Alex. (Tyke can't wait to teach him some of his er, um, "instincts", but I think I've convinced him that you will be raising Alex to be a lover not a fighter.) Keep the journal entries coming--they make our days and fill us with warm fuzzy feelings. (Tyke's were warmer and fuzzier while reading about the swimsuit competition...but now I digress.) Love and Animal Crackers to you all. XOX Renee (A.K.A. Button) and Tyke (A.K.A. Bruiser) Danville, IL - Saturday, August 23, 2003 12:26 AM CDT Hey guys! It looks like you are having a great time - and it is wonderful to finally see Alex (I hope you have explained that Uncle Gator will be calling him "Little Sanjo"). Hurry home - our little guy will be here soon. Then the fun really begins! Take care, and keep sending those pictures! Steve & Winnie - Saturday, August 23, 2003 9:18 AM CDT Andy and Shila, Congratulations! Alexander is gorgeous!! He's got a nice head of hair like we Indian babies did right out of the womb. I'm so happy for you and Alex - a great match! Ami Saraiya <asaraiya@att.net> Chicago, IL USA - Saturday, August 23, 2003 9:12 AM CDT I hope I wasn't the only one crying while viewing the slide show. Andy and Shila, your son is beautiful. What a blessing he is. Enjoy him, they grow fast. Caryn Smith <cjcm66@aol.com> Chicago Heights, IL USA - Friday, August 22, 2003 10:44 PM CDT My name is Bob and I talk to Ruth two - three times weekly. We have become very close. She is sooo proud of baby Alexander. My wife and I can't believe how much hair he has!!! Our kids didn't have that much hair until they were much older. ENJOY!!! You have an adorable son. Bob Baran <boog1950@aol.com> Arlington Heights, IL USA - Friday, August 22, 2003 4:45 PM CDT Hi Guys! Wow this is great thank God for the age of electronic communication. This is so much fun sharing the excitement. I can't believe how blessed we are. I wish Papa could be here to see little Santi. He would be so touched. Shila's folks must be estatic. How are you going to manage all the visitations? You may have to issue tickets. Everyone wants a piece of the action. Take care and thanks for keeping us posted. Love, Aunt Kathy and Grandma Kathy Schuett Palatine, I ll. USA - Thursday, August 21, 2003 10:38 PM CDT Andy & Shila, I can't tell you how happy we are that you have this beautiful baby Boy! Alexander is so lucky! Our prayers for a great trip and traveling mercies. May God keep his loving arms around you. Dave & Cindy Savone <cindysavone@aol.com> Fox River Grove, IL USA - Thursday, August 21, 2003 9:19 PM CDT I am so thrilled for both of you! Congrats! I look forward to meeting Alex. xox Lisa Ackerman <lzyhylij@hotmail.com> Chicago, Il USA - Thursday, August 21, 2003 4:57 PM CDT Congratulations! The three of you look and sound delightful and handsome/beautiful together. Thanks for sharing these special photos with us. Also,the ducks are quite attractive. I hope Alexander will keep them all in line. I wish you a life of joy and blessing with your new son. Ruth Amsbaugh <Amsbaugh@wyoming.com (from the CC listserve)> Riverton, WY USA - Thursday, August 21, 2003 3:28 PM CDT All the girls at the Library are being very nice about my monopolyzing their time with news items and pictures from Colombia about "Alexander the Great." I have waited a long time to be a grandma, and am making the most of it. "Home safe" as Papa used to say. Love Grandma S - Thursday, August 21, 2003 3:11 PM CDT Hi Shila and Andy, you don't know me, but I just looked at all of your pictures and journal entries, and cried. I am so happy for you both. My hubby and I are also adopting from Chiquitines and going through Wide Horizons. As of 8/5 we were #3! We hope to get the call by October or November! Congratulations! Alex is adorable. I love the picture of him in the bath with the cute spiked hair doo. Patty from Maryland pkstroble@yahoo.com Patricia Stroble <pkstroble@yahoo.com> Baldwin, MD USA - Thursday, August 21, 2003 1:45 PM CDT Andy & Shila and now Alexander!!! It has been absolutely wonderful being able to follow your daily trials and tribulations!! Alexander is so beautiful and the three of you look so great together--you were all meant to find eachother and be a family--I am convinced of it. Hearing of your "first" moments together has been very heart warming and brings smiles to our faces. I know the first moment when you meet your baby is breath-taking and no words could ever describe what goes through your heart at that very moment!! Our hearts are just bursting with happiness for all of you. Relish every moment and enjoy your time there--we can't wait to see you all when you return. Allison & Jim Haftl <ahaftl@comcast.net> Palatine, IL - Thursday, August 21, 2003 9:26 AM CDT Dear Andy and Shila, you don't know me, but my name is Cydney, and I just reviewed your website and got chills! My husband and I adopted our son, Henry, from Chiquitines (Thru Wide Horizons) in April. He is now 6 months old and we are so thrilled. Seeing your beautiful boy brought back the wonderful memories of Cali, Chiquitines and of course, Trudi!We had a similar frantic experience with our first feeding in the hotel - no sterilized bottles and a hungry baby so I really laughed when I read that. I found out about your website thru a woman who also adopted a son, Sam, from Chiquitines. We talk often on the phone and she is now on the list for a second (We will be soon too!) If you ever want to chat, exchange photos of our little miracles, please eamil me - we would love it! Our email is ccallison@gwi.net. Best wishes and congratulations! Cydney Cydney Allison <ccallison@gwi.net> South Portland, Maine USA - Thursday, August 21, 2003 4:59 AM CDT Andy and Shila, Alexander is an absolutely BEAUTIFUL baby! I have never met two people in my life who are more deserving of the gift of a baby than the two of you!!!! Nothing is more precious then the love of a mother and father for their child. Take care!!! Sheri Dee <sherixanders@aol.com> Chicago, IL USA - Wednesday, August 20, 2003 10:16 PM CDT Andy and Shila, We are so excited. Sharon called and told us to check the site to see new pictures and find out little Santi's name. I think it is a great name. I was sooo excited I wasn't ready for the emotional impact. I lost it when I got to Shila's tear stained face. Grandma got her first computer lesson today. You have Alex in one arm and I have Grandma at my side. She says she is speechless! We love you guys to pieces and thank God for you and the wonderful blessing He has given our family. We enjoyed reading the entries from all your friends. We knew you were popular with us, but it is plain to be seen you are very blessed by many great friends. LOVE Grandma and Aunt Kathy Ruth Giles and Kathy Schuett Palatine, Ill USA - Wednesday, August 20, 2003 6:08 PM CDT CONGRATULATIONS!!! What a beautiful family! I was so excited to see the pictures of you, Andy and baby Alexander. Keep us posted as we are addicted to this web page. Fondly - April. April Glosky <aglosky@levybooks.com> Naperville, IL United States - Wednesday, August 20, 2003 9:53 AM CDT Shila & Andy- I cried when I saw the pictures of you and Alex. I am so happy for the three of you. Those big brown eyes are gorgeous. Be safe! Enjoy every minute! Maribeth - Wednesday, August 20, 2003 7:50 AM CDT Mama! I am glad to read that you are doing well. If your guestbook of comments doesn't give you enough indication you guys are very loved and that is a wonderful situation to bring a child into. It is times like these that renew your faith in the world, a bundle of joy is given to a wonderful set of people well deserving of him. Can't wait to hear/read more updates. Take Care! Monique Hillside, IL USA - Tuesday, August 19, 2003 8:38 PM CDT WELL?!?!?!? Where is the news of the day?!?!?! I'm sitting here at the beach, dealing with the SLOWEST dial-up EVER, and hoped to hear news of the day while Kelsey napped. So I FINALLY get logged on, and nothing but Andy's posting from SUNDAY!!! What are you doing, getting to know your son or something? You can do that later, right now you have an anxious "aunt" waiting for news!!! I will hope for something next time I try - which, given the speed of this connection, may not be before I SEE YOU IN BOGOTA! Colleen <cmclain823@aol.com> Emerald Isle (temporarily), NC - Tuesday, August 19, 2003 2:03 PM CDT Dear Shila & Andy: We are very exited of becoming grandparents for the first time. We will be looking forward for the day of your arrival with a healthy infant. We wish you all the best while you are there and for a long long time after you come back. Keshava and Lakshmi - Tuesday, August 19, 2003 8:04 AM CDT I hope all is going well. Our prayers are with you. Lisa Schwarz <oschwarz@earthlink.net> - Monday, August 18, 2003 9:46 PM CDT DEAR SHILA AND ANDY BEFORE I START I WOULD LIKE TO INTRODUCE MYSELF. MY NAME IS DEBBIE AND I AM TABITHA'S AUNT. WHEN TAB TOLD ME THAT YOU WERE GOING TO ADOPT YOUR FIRST SON I WAS SO EXCITED FOR YOU. I KNOW EXACTLY WHAT YOU ARE GOING THROUGH AND ALL OF THE WONDERFUL FEELINGS YOU ARE HAVING. FOURTEEN YEARS AGO WE ADOPTED OUR FIRST SON BRIAN. IT WAS ONE OF THE MOST HAPPIEST DAYS OF OUR LIFE. THE SECOND MOST HAPPIEST DAY OF OUR LIFE WAS FOUR YEARS LATER WHEN WE ADOPTED OUR SECOND SON DAVID. WE WERE SO BLESSED TO HAVE BEEN ABLE TO ADOPT TWO OF THE MOST WONDERFUL BOYS IN THE WORLD. NOW YOU HAVE ADOPTED ANOTHER ONE OF THE MOST WONDERFUL LITTLE BOYS IN THE WORLD. I JUST WANT TO SAY HOW HAPPY I AM FOR ALL OF YOU AND LET YOU KNOW THAT YOU ARE IN MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS. HE IS SO CUTE. LIKE TAB SAID ENJOY EVERY DAY BECAUSE THEY GROW UP SO FAST. WHEN YOU GET BACK AND GET INTO A ROUTINE I WOULD LOVE TO COME AND MEET ALL OF YOU. WE CAN SHARE OUR WONDERFUL STORIES ABOUT OUR ADOPTIONS. CONGRATULATIONS! SINCERELY DEBBIE (TAB'S AUNT) DEBBIE <DSGANEY@SBCGLOBAL.NET> CHICAGO, IL - Monday, August 18, 2003 3:29 PM CDT I can't begin to tell you how happy I am for the both of you. He is absolutely adorable and will bring so much joy and happiness into your lives. God bless! Sue Makos Oak Lawn, IL USA - Monday, August 18, 2003 12:48 AM CDT Andy and Shila: We couldn't be happier for you. And what a beautiful little one! You are fortunate to have him--and he is certainly fortunate to have you. God bless. Ralph and Mona Reynolds Mona Reynolds Fox River Grove, IL USA - Friday, August 15, 2003 8:28 PM CDT Dear Andy and Shila, Congratulations. You must be so excited. My heart quickens just thinking how you must feel. Santiago is beautiful. The photographs are a wonderful idea. So good of you to share your joy. All the best for your new family! Sheryl and Ray Leak Alachua, FL USA - Friday, August 15, 2003 8:13 PM CDT Shila & Andy: Words cannot express how happy I am for the both of you! A baby is the closest thing to an angel...just watch him while he sleeps and you will agree. Shila - if you are as great a mother as you were my boss, then little Santiago is in good hands :0) Have a safe trip! Best to you always, Michelle (and Chase) Michelle Crooks <m_crooks@msn.com> Calumet City, IL - Friday, August 15, 2003 1:46 PM CDT I can't even begin to tell you how happy I am for you. Enjoy every MINUTE...they grow up fast : ) Tabitha Plainfield, Il USA - Friday, August 15, 2003 12:39 AM CDT Shila & Andy, This has been along time coming and I can not think of more deserving people. Enjoy everyday with that precious bundle and I can't wait to meet him in person. Justine Willis <jgwillis1959@hotmail.com> Hyannis, MA USA - Friday, August 15, 2003 8:38 AM CDT Andy & Shila, Once again we are so overjoyed of your new blessing. As the Bible says in Psalms, "Children Are A Gift From God". Take it from a family of three girls it's nonstop laughs from the start. Continue to take pictures and write journals, because Little Baby Khan will be able to appreciate how wonderful his parents are when he grows up. And in return he will continue to make you both the proud parents that you are! Theresa L. Howard & Dwayne Howard (Maxine, Monica, and Little Theresa) <hfreedom5@yahoo.com> Bellwood, IL USA - Friday, August 15, 2003 7:43 AM CDT This is so very special. May god bless you and your new baby boy. I am so very happy for you. You will be a wonderful mom because you are a wonderful person. Have a super trip .... enjoy. Marie Ollie Harrell <mollie@levybooks.com> Glenwood, IL - Friday, August 15, 2003 7:06 AM CDT Love the photos...so bright eyed and adorable! Thank you for sharing with me. Thinking of all of you as you take the step to the next chapter. Looking ofrward to seeing the first family photo! Enjoy evry moment! Kim Knueppel <knueppel@ameritech.net> Schererville, IN USA - Wednesday, August 13, 2003 9:38 PM CDT I am practicing my Grandma spoiling techniques on the kids here in Fox River Grove. I can't wait to spoil him up close and personal! Love Grandma Sharon Fox River Grove, IL USA - Tuesday, August 12, 2003 7:24 PM CDT Dear Shila & Andy, Congratulations!!!!! Santiago is a very lucky little boy to have found such a loving and wonderful family to join. May each day together produce more and more joyous memories. Looking forward to meeting your new addition! Madhavi - Tuesday, August 12, 2003 7:15 PM CDT Oh my gosh, he's adorable!!! Congratulations to both of you. You will make wonderful parents and Baby Santiago Khan is very lucky to have you!! We wish you all a safe journey and we can't wait to meet him. The Kleinmans Twinsburg, OH USA - Tuesday, August 12, 2003 8:16 AM CDT He is just darling! I bet you can't wait to get him home. Courtenay Deniston <courtenaydeniston317@msn.com> Oro Valley, AZ USA - Tuesday, August 12, 2003 0:20 AM CDT Dear Sheila & Andy: We were excited to see the pictures. Thank you for sharing the joy with us. Heartiest congratulations wish you all the hapiness with your bundle of joy. We look forward to holding him. Listed below is 24 hour hot line telephone for any advice and baby sitting service and is absolutely free. 815-932-0057. Madhu & sadhana auntie madhukar and Sadhana kulkarni <kulkarni16@attbi.com> bourbonnais, il usa - Monday, August 11, 2003 10:43 PM CDT Congratulations and good luck on your upcomming trip! I'm sure this is exciting time for you and Shila. Joanne and I will keep you in our prayers. Larry Cygan <clc005@email.mot.com> Schaumburg, Il USA - Monday, August 11, 2003 5:15 PM CDT Andy and Shila, I'm so thrilled for you! Thanks for making photos accessible....it's so great to see them. Santiago is beautiful...his big brown eyes are like both of yours! Can't wait to meet him when you all return. Julie Pendell <pendell@wishes.org> chicago, IL 60657 - Monday, August 11, 2003 4:27 PM CDT Andy and Shila Congratulations! This is great news. Santiago is gorgeous! My best wishes to you all. Shrikanth Mysore <mbshrikanth@hotmail.com> Tuscaloosa, AL USA - Monday, August 11, 2003 3:46 PM CDT Shila and Andy, Thanks you so much for sharing your good news and photos! I'm so happy for you both as I know you thought this day would never arrive. All the best to you and little Santiago. -Mary Mary Rizkallah <maryrizkallah@earthlink.net> Park Ridge, IL USA - Monday, August 11, 2003 2:08 PM CDT Shila and Andy - I am so excited for you. Santiago is one lucky baby to have such caring, open-hearted parents. Congratulations - you won't believe how much your life changes - and, really and truly, all for the good!! You have never known a love like the love you feel for your child. Best Wishes. Kathi & Dennis Barton <kbarton@kraft.com> Arlington Heights, IL - Monday, August 11, 2003 10:39 AM CDT Shila and Andy, I could not be happier for you both, but especially for Santiago, who will have the best parents he could have ever dreamed of. You are a beautiful family, and I wish you all the best life has to offer. ahave a safe and happy trip. Rhonda Rose <rhonda.rose@harpercollins.com> HANOVER PARK, IL usa - Monday, August 11, 2003 9:22 AM CDT Congratulations! We can't wait to meet him! The O'Malley Family Wheaton, - Monday, August 11, 2003 8:28 AM CDT We are very excited to hear that you will be bringing Santiago home in a few weeks. Raising him will be a real adventure. Rob and Ann Rob & Ann Palandech <rp79mbox@yahoo.com> Suwanee, GA USA - Monday, August 11, 2003 6:39 AM CDT Congratulations to both of you. Looking forward to see pictures when they become available. Good luck Bob Mardo <ramardo@cox.net> Cumberland, R.I. - Sunday, August 10, 2003 7:14 PM CDT Hooray for Baby Khan! What a cutie patootie! Congratulations you two - you make a beautiful family. Hope the trip is smooth sailing. Katy O'Mahony <katyo@playboy.com> Chicago, IL - Sunday, August 10, 2003 2:55 PM CDT Wow! Are you a beautiful family! This is GREAT!!! Sioux Susan Elizabeth Pulley <sioux@theriver.com> Elgin, AZ USA - Saturday, August 9, 2003 8:50 AM CDT Congratulations, I am so happy for you and Grandma Sharon too! He looks so adorable and he has stars in his eyes too! E Blau (friend of Sharon's) <adamsrib34@aol.com> Fox River Grove, IL US - Friday, August 8, 2003 10:42 PM CDT We have enjoyed reading your adoption story and seeing the photos of your new family member. Congratulations! We can't wait to meet that little darling. Uncle Anwer and Aunt Lenore - Friday, August 8, 2003 3:09 PM CDT Mommy Shila and Daddy Andy, I know the awesome feeling it is to get that wonderful phonecall at work. For me it was the happiest day of my life. I am so happy for all three of you. I am sure you have gotten lots of advise about traveling with your new son but if you ever want to chat give me a call. Mary Campbell <Campbellws@direcway.com> Western Springs, IL USA - Friday, August 8, 2003 6:40 AM CDT Congratulations on Baby Santiago Khan! We are so happy for you both and wish we could celebrate with you when he arrives. The baby couldn't have asked for better parents. Love from NYC, Vani and Manu Vani and Manu Bettegowda <vbettegowda@yahoo.com> NY, NY USA - Thursday, August 7, 2003 1:46 PM CDT Oh my gosh... Little Baby Boy Khan is BEAUTIFUL!!! I am so excited for you guys! This little boy is so lucky to have you two for parents! We wish you joy & happiness & fun with your new adventure in life! Take lots of pictures! Love, Amy Amy Peters <scottamypeters@peoplepc.com> Pepper Pike, Ohio USA - Thursday, August 7, 2003 10:38 AM CDT CONGRATULATIONS MOMMY & DADDY!! HE IS ONE HECK OF A BEAUTIFUL BOY...SEEMS TO ME THE FIRST STOP WHEN YOU GET BACK TO THE STATES WILL BE AT THE BARBER SHOP. HAVE YOU HAD THE PLEASURE OF CHANGING ANY POOH-POOH DIAPERS YET...I THINK THAT'S A TASK ANDY SHOULD BE IN CHARGE OF. JIM HAFTL JIM HAFTL PALATINE, IL USA - Thursday, August 7, 2003 10:16 AM CDT Shila & Andy, Hearing the news about your new baby boy was the best!! We have traveled this road with you for sometime and we are so thrilled that you are now officially new parents. There is no question that the two of you will be fabulous parents as your hearts are bursting with love. Have a great trip to Columbia and enjoy every moment!! Can't wait to play together!! Allison & Jim Haftl <ahaftl@comcast.net> Palatine, IL USA - Thursday, August 7, 2003 10:09 AM CDT Winnie and I are so excited for you! The only thing better than one beautiful baby boy is TWO baby boys! We are anxious for the day when Little Sanjo meets Little Gator! Good luck and God Bless You on your trip. Steve & Winnie <wbsg@core.com> Chicago, IL - Thursday, August 7, 2003 9:20 AM CDT Congrats!! You have waited five years for this gift! Enjoy every moment from the 2AM rocking the baby to sleep to creating his scrapbook! Take lots of pictures!! They grow up too fast!! Looking forward to seeing you and meeting your baby!! Barbara Karstrom <CreativeKarstrom@yahoo.com> Des Moines, IA - Thursday, August 7, 2003 8:24 AM CDT I'm so overwhelmed with emotion for the Khan family! Thank you for sharing your beautiful process with us, and you will continue to be in my thoughts and prayers as you travel to bring this beautiful baby boy home. He is very blessed to have you as the parents that will help him see the world through his own eyes as he grows up. You guidance and love will provide a safe life for him, along with teaching him the importance of maintaining a great sense of humor! Love, (Ya Ya) Auntie Char Char Maywald <chargroup14@sbcglobal.net> Algonquin, IL USA - Thursday, August 7, 2003 8:13 AM CDT Wow, this is so exciting and I am very happy for the both of you and of course for the baby. He is a very lucky little boy to have parents like you and to grow up in a wonderful country. Good luck and God Bless. Joanne Acciaioli <jacciaioli@erimail.com> S. Attleboro, MA USA - Thursday, August 7, 2003 6:29 AM CDT RON AND I HAVE 2 GREAT GIFTS FOR YOU. WHEN YOU ARE IN FOX RIVER GROVE PLEASE STOP IN AND CARRY THEM HOME. (THEY DO NOT HAVE DUCKS ON THEM.) GOD BLESS THE 3 OF YOU WITH HEALTH AND HAPPINESS. RON AND ROSANN MALMGREN R & R MALMGREN <RVKEYWEST@AOL.COM> FOX RIVER GROVE, IL U S A - Monday, August 4, 2003 9:26 AM CDT Your future addition looks beautiful. Good luck in Bogota. The teddy bear in the baby carrier looks WAY TOO LIGHT, Andy. You need some real lumbar-crushing weight so you can be hunched over like the rest of us. Best of luck and God bless. Sarah (Momma Sharon's friend) <sarahjed@ameritech.net> Fox River Grove, IL U.S.A. - Saturday, August 2, 2003 4:44 PM CDT Your great senses of warm humor are everywhere! Congratulations and I can't wait until we get the referral! Christine Spuhler - The Cradle <cspuhler@cradle.org> Barrington , IL USA - Monday, July 28, 2003 10:37 AM CDT OK, I had to post to your guestbook, now that I've found the website. I LOVE the nursery, but am certainly looking more forward to seeing pictures posted of J.K.B.K.! It was terrific seeing the two of you this weekend, and the nursery is beautiful. Hopefully I'll be seeing the THREE of you soon - like in Bogota! Colleen McLain <cmclain823@aol.com> Ashburn, VA USA - Tuesday, July 15, 2003 8:06 AM CDT Great photos ralph and connie - Friday, July 11, 2003 10:57 AM CDT You both did a great job with the website. The nursery looks beautiful! Erica L. Pelaccia <epelaccia@whfc.org> Waltham, MA USA - Friday, June 27, 2003 10:12 AM CDT I have been collecting stuff other than ducks so that the child does not become "quacked" in the head. ha ha. Love Mama S S. Giles K. Fox River Grove, IL USA - Wednesday, April 16, 2003 9:14 PM CDT That's pretty cool Andy Schaumburg, IL - Tuesday, April 15, 2003 2:44 PM CDT |
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