. . .On the 2 hour bus ride from Chongqing to Fuling our guide, Marie, gave us last minute advice, instructions, and support. I remember thinking how was I ever going to remember all of it, especially the multi-steps involved in making a bottle. As we drove through Fuling, I tried to focus and take in as much as I could. This was Sydney's hometown and I wanted to remember as much as I could.

Finally, the bus had gone as far as it could go and we walked down the small street to the orphanage. As I walked hand in hand with my husband through the front gates of the orphanage, I looked to my right and there were 2 babies in walkers and from that point on, I don't think my eyes were ever dry. I think this was the first time I thought about the babies who would still be at the orphanage at the end of the day.

We had been told we had time to use the restroom before going to the room where we would receive our daughters. As I was walking toward the restroom, I heard James' voice telling me to come. He was pointing to the most beautiful baby and saying, "It's Sydney!" I could not believe it. Our daughter was right in front of me and I was in total awe! The nanny who was holding Sydney pointed to James and I saying, "Mama, Baba." We watched in amazement as Sydney went back and forth between the nanny and an older boy who lived in the orphanage. She seemed to really like this boy and we were overjoyed to see her interact with him, because Sydney had 2 older brothers waiting for her at home.

Eventually, the time came for the babies to line up and to be given to their parents. What a wonderful sight. Ten babies, all dressed in yellow, being united with their families! Finally, we were able to hold Sydney in our arms. A dream come true! Our time at Fuling continued as we toured the orphanage. Everywhere we walked there seemed to be babies either in walkers or bouncy seats. I bent over and talked and touched as many of the babies as I could.

As our time came to an end and we gathered our things, I had so many emotions. I was ecstatic to finally have Sydney in our arms, and yet sad for her as she was already grieving for what was familiar to her.  As we left, I wondered about the babies that were still there and wished I could take them all home with me. Running the marathon is a way that I can help the babies who are still at the orphanage. My memory of the 2 babies in walkers as we first entered the orphanage has never left me.

This memory is the inspiration that helps me get up each morning at 6:00, put on my running shoes and head out the door. It is, also, the image I will carry with me on October 9th during the 26.2 miles through the streets of Chicago. First Hugs is a tremendous gift the Fuling family and friends community provides to the babies who are still there. And what a comfort for future parents of Fulingers, to know their babies were held when they were crying, played with when they were awake, and given the love and attention each child needs.

Lots of affection in the First Hugs room.   Babies crawl, stand, play with toys, and touch books and pictures.  Not one baby sits alone in a walker!

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