A Piece of My Heart Remains in China

January 5, 2011

Many of you have shared your favorite photos from 2010 and I thought about doing the same. I had planned to go back through my library of photos and pick a picture that was special to me to coordinate with each calendar month, but once I opened up Lightroom, I could not move past the photos that were still sitting there untouched from my recent trip to China.

In one of my last posts before returning home, I mentioned that I had more than a few photos that I did not have time to share and I thought I would be posting them once we got back to the US.

After arriving home, I was so overwhelmed and jetlagged, not to mention that I was really anxious to start sharing all of the new photos of Reagan with her sister, brother, and Daddy. I have been concentrating on posting the day to day and keeping up with all of her firsts and I just did not make the time to go back and look through those pictures.

This weekend, I finally went through and picked out some that I found special in one way or another.

Bridge Color BLOG IT
The picture above and below were taken in Martyrs Park in Changsha. I have a similar bridge shot up there in my blog header, but this one is in color and taken at different angle. I loved that you could actually see people crossing the bridge in this one.

Pagoda BLOG IT

Flip flops BLOG IT
These flip flops were so bright and colorful! They were being made by hand at an arts festival that we attended in Changsha.

train tracks BLOG IT
Day three we headed to Reagan's orphanage in Chenzhou. It would have taken us approximately 5 hours to get there by car, so we opted to take the highspeed bullet train and were able to get to Chenzhou in just 55 minutes. What an experience....WOW can those trains move! This was the view from the inside of the trainstation.

Train Station BLOG IT
These two pictures were taken from inside the train, through the window, just before we took off.

Man with the bamboo BLOG IT
This was the view of the street that led us up to the orphanage gates. I think it was the first picture I took when we exited the cab.

Inside the front gates BLOG IT
These sneakers were just sitting on this ledge inside the orphanage gates. If you look at the small picture to the right you can jut barely see the spot of red in the background. Those are the sneakers. Upon entering the gates, we were immediately struck by the sights and sounds and I remember looking at these sneakers and thinking that they looked so out of place there....... and I wondered who they belonged to.

Girl with the bike COLOR BLOG IT
More photos from the streets of Chenzhou.
Alley COLOR BLOG IT

GIrl eating rice BW BLOG IT
This was and still is one of my most favorite photos from our trip. We were walking down the main street from the orphanage and this girl was just sitting on this pile of rubble eating her lunch. I think I posted it in color the last time, but I like it in black and white as well.

kids in chairs BLOG IT
The first room that we entered within the orphanage was the toddler room. These children were all over the age of 12 months. A majority of the little ones were in their cribs, but there were also a few in baby chairs. They seemed a little upset at the time so I walked over to them first.

Adorable toddler in chair BW BLOG IT

Baby Girls BLOG IT
We saw so many children that day and we only visited two rooms; the toddler room and the baby room where Reagan had lived. Almost three months later I can still remember all of the faces and exactly where they were in those rooms. The little peanut on the right looked as though she was only a few weeks old at most. She was so tiny and so fragile looking.

Toddler Room BLOG IT
I am sure you all remember this cute little guy in the orange and his beautiful little friend in the red who were eating their lunch when we arrived! This picture has been posted here on the blog a few times, but I had to include it again because it is this photo that has opened some new doors for me and really has given me my new focus for 2011.

Around Thanksgiving, I received an email from a woman who told me she was adopting that beautiful little girl in the red. I was so excited for her.....and for this child. My heart literally skips a beat each time I hear that another child will have a forever family whether they reside in Chenzhou or any other orphanage.

That same day, just a few hours later, I received another email from someone at Half the Sky Foundation. {If you are not familiar with Half the Sky, check them out HERE. They do some amazing things for the children of China. Reagan's orphanage was a Half the Sky orphanage and currently they are doing work in about 46 other orphanages. From what I understand, that number is rapidly increasing.} It was an incredible email that was a testament of how kind, compassionate, committed and unbelievable this China Adoption Community can be.

One of my blog readers{if you are out there, I would love to know who you are so I can thank you}was so taken by this little boy in the orange, that they actually contacted HTS(Half the sky) to see if they could sponsor him. {I don't think you can request to sponsor a specific child, only a specific age range and/or a specific orphanage. At this point, I am not sure if this little boy is still in Chenzhou. I pray he has already been matched with a family.}

When this person wrote to HTS, they said some very nice things about my blog and forwarded them the link. My blog address eventually got passed around to some of the staff and after they read our story, looked through my photos and posts, they decided to reach out to me to see if I would be interested in volunteering my photography and/or writing skills to benefit the children in China.

Within 30 seconds of reading the email, I was already writing my response to tell them that I was most definitely interested. After some correspondence back and forth, we eventually coordinated a phone conference that took place the second week in December.

During that call we spoke about a number of different things I could do and together we tried to come up with some creative ideas. Some of those ideas still need to be discussed further, but there was one thing that I offered to do that was a no brainer.

I am currently making plans for 2011 photography classes and workshops, but I have decided that a good portion of the proceeds from every class and workshop are going to be donated to Half the Sky Orphanages and their Children.

So this is what I am thinking. . . . .

Last year I ran photo editing classes online and I also held two different weekend workshops here in Pennsylvania. I had a great response, but I think I could do better if I tweaked my offering to accomodate those who can't hop on a plane or leave their families for the weekend.

I am in the process of taking my weekend workshop and turning it into a 4 week online course called "Get out of the Auto Zone" You will learn all the camera basics, photo editing and enhancements, and maybe even receive an extra something special for sigining up!!

The plan is to launch the first 4 week class around March and if there is enough interest I will run a second class!

For those looking for that weekened workshop getaway, you are in luck, because I am going to schedule two for this summer!

One beginner workshop, just as I did last year and one more advanced workshop. My good friend and might I add, extrmely talented photographer, Marla and I are going to team up and together we are going to offer the advanced workshop for those that are beyond the basics! We have a sneaking suspicion that a lot of the ladies that attended that first workshop will want to come back for the level two, so we anticipate a large group:)

If you have an interest in any of these offerings, please let me know. You can leave me a comment or send me an email (visionsbylisa at gmail dot com) so I can add you to my distribution list and when the details are all finalized and the classes are ready to be rolled out, you will be the first to know!

This was a little long I know, but I am very excited to be able to unite two things that I am so passionate about..... photography and adoption.

When I left China, I said that a piece of my heart would remain there and it has and always will. We have our sweet baby Reagan and feel incredibly blessed...... but there are so many left behind and it is hard not to think of those children. You hope that they will all find forever families, but the truth of the matter is that some may not.

My contribution through this particular venture may not be that large in the grand scheme of things, but even a small amount might make a difference for at least one child and to me, that is what it is all about.

I have another phone conference set up with HTS next week, so I hope to be able to share more details after that call.

Thanks for letting me share my excitement and my new focus for 2011.


114 comments:

Unknown said...

I loved every word. And every picture. I cry for the children who are still waiting. Thank you so much for giving of your time and your talent to help Lisa. That is a very beautiful thing. I am off to visit Half The Sky...even though I need to be up to leave for the city at 5:00 am. Sending love and many good wishes. Becky

Unknown said...

Lisa - wow! wow! wow! your photos are breathtaking and truly take me right into the streets of china with you! beautifully done! the edits are perfect!

i would love to know more about your advanced workshop. please keep me posted!

lots of love and truly excited to watch God use your gift and talents for His glory in 2011!

jill

Anonymous said...

Thank you for sharing what is on your heart. Those photos are heartbreaking.

Anonymous said...

Your photos are breathtaking! I'd love to know more aboout the 4 week online course!

ellieshine said...

Lisa,

How incredible to think that little boy's life was possible changed as a result of your photography - it gives me chills actually!

These photos capture so much of what China is - such a wonderful glimpse into our children's birthplace. love. them.

I am very interested in the workshops - My first choice would be the weekend one(s). Hopefully the timing will work out better this time around!! I'm also interested in Photoshop workshops if you decide to do those.

Happy 2011!!

Buckeroomama said...

Oh, Lisa --these photos are beyond wonderful. That first one up there looks like something my dad would have in one of his paintings. :)

I would so love to be able to join the weekend workshop, but that would be highly unlikely, so yes, I would be interested in the online course.

Can't wait to hear more details about that one.

Have a blessed year, Lisa!

Unknown said...

Stunning photos...hope you and your family have a happy and healthy 2011

Wanda said...

Lisa - you put a big grin on my face - I can't think of a better ambassador for Half the Sky and children still waiting for their families. Well....ok.....grinning and tearing - all at once.

I know you are thrilled to be able to share your passions like this. And I know it will be successful and so satisfying to you too. I'm really looking forward to hearing more.

And you know I'm there for the week-end workshop #2. Wild horses couldn't keep me away!!

Big hugs my friend!!!
xoxo

Barbara said...

Beautiful beautiful images.

Dawn said...

oh Lisa every single one of these pictures is so beautiful. We were in Changsha to get Lucy, but Martyr's park was having lots of construction, so we couldn't go...love those pics! I left a big piece of my heart in China and I cannot wait for the day I get to go back and share it with my Lucy!

Ok ...now put me on your distribution list...I am soooo interested in "get out of the auto zone"!!!!!!!! I am so thrilled you are going to offer something like this...I hope to one day come to PA for a in person class, but for now this will have to do!!

Sarah said...

These photos are amazing. My husband and I went on a mission trip to Jamaica years ago and we visited an orphanage there. It was definitely one of the most intense things we have ever done.
This is my first time linking up.
www.martinmommy.com

Patricia Roebuck said...

Thank you again for sharing the photos and story behind them. I would be interested in workshops. I shoot in manual mode so not sure which workshop I would need. My email is patriciaroebuck@bellsouth.net

Anonymous said...

You have a wonderful blog and a beautiful family. I would be very interested in your online course.

Shelly said...

Such a beautiful post, and what an amazing opportunity you have to use your God given talents!

I would be interested in your online course!

Kayce said...

Isn't is amazing what China does to you. Your pictures make my longing to live there more and more intense each time you post them. Each photo pulls me closer and closer to someday making that happen.

I love how God has put you in front of so many people who otherwise wouldn't know of those beautiful faces...you will bring together so many families without even knowing it Lisa. Congratulations on such a wonderful adventure for 2011, I can not wait to see your photography magic happen with HTS!

I am DEFINITELY interested in a online course by the way!!

Unknown said...

WOW!Stunning photos! absoultly (sp?) Stunning!

TanyaLea said...

I remember some of these photos from before... and they still take my breath away! I think it's impossible not to leave a piece of your heart in China, especially when a piece of China in now a member of your family!! I DITTO all of those feelings to the 'T'!!

As always, your photograpy takes my breath away. P'LEASE keep me on your distribution list for the 'getting out of auto' online class. I have a nice Nikkon and can't seem to venture very far beyond the auto mode...but SO ready to learn more! And I LOVE the cause, so it's a perfect place to give the funds if I can afford to. PTL for such a wonderful open-door connection. I love how God does that!!! The red-thread just keeps going on and on and on, doesn't it!?! God bless you and I can't wait to hear more about your new venture with HTS Foundation... they do GREAT things and now you are a vessel He will be working through along with them!! <><

Big Hugs,
~Tanya

Anonymous said...

Amazing images! touched my heart, the reality of the world can be heartbreaking.

Justine said...

Those photographs of the orphanage bought back so many memories of when I used to volunteer at the orphanage in Hong Kong - heart wrenching stuff that used to make me go home and cry so often as I wanted to take so many of them home. I would be very interested in your advance photography course, I live in england so it would be online.

Mia_h_n said...

You are really one of the reasons I've become completely captivated by DSLR photography, and ever since I read your posts about your latest weekend classes I wished I could go.
But I can't (since I live in Europe) so this online class would be a wish come true! :)

I can't wait to hear more!

Alyson and Ford said...

How wonderful you are to keep the children left back in China in your heart! Your photos are amazing and what a blessing they will be to those who take your classes and the children who receive the donation. Congrats!

Keep me in mind for the four week on line class!

Alyzabeth's Mommy

R Montalban said...

What beautiful images you captured.

Number 6 and no more counting! said...

these images are just beautiful Lisa. Just beautiful!

Can't wait to hear more about your project!

Lea
xo

Love Letters To China said...

I'm so happy this is working out for you. HTS is an amazing organization. I've been donating to them for a while now. They will benefit greatly from your help and photography. These photos of China are gorgeous. I can't wait to hear more about your classes. You already know how I feel about the advanced workshop. :-) Summer sounds wonderful...

Hugs,
Grace

Jo said...

Your photos from China are amazing! You really do have natural talent.

Count me in for the online class as well as possibly a group class. Any chance of Cape Cod as one of the meeting the spots?

Jo

Elizabeth Lyng said...

I think you are so beautiful inside and out and what you are doing moves me. Your photos say a thousand words on their own. Thank you for sharing your heart.

These Are The Days said...

What beautiful images of such a precious and tender time. Being an adoptive mom myself I can hardly hold back the tears. It makes me just want to take all those sweet kids home with me. Soph's going to be 4 next month and I can hardly believe it. There is no other experience like adoption. We are so blessed to have these sweeties!

AUDREY {LIL' BOOGER BLOG} said...

Interested in the classes for sure!

Keisha said...

What a Great Idea! I would possibly be interested. Not much of a photograher.. but, would love to learn more.
Your photos are great by the way. ;)

Joni said...

absolutely stunning photos. my heart aches for those who wait!

Freckles & Dimples Photography said...

Congratulations on your new endeavor! What a wonderful organization to contribute to. Keep me on your list:)

Gail said...

I'm so happy you've unveiled what you've been planning Lisa...you are one special person to be giving back to HTS and helping others with your photography talent.

It's important not to forget those children who don't have forever families yet.

And your China pictures are spectacular.

You already know what workshop I'd love to attend...hope to be there!


xoxo

Gail

Suzie said...

As always, your photos are amazing!! Congratulations on your new endeavor. I can't think of a better person/photographer for them to have chosen.

I am definitely interested in the four week on-line course. I've had my DSLR for over a year now and still have no idea what I am doing!!

Suzie

The Byrd's Nest said...

What an extra blessing to be able to continue to help the children personally Lisa. Your heart is so beautiful. All of the pictures are so captivating!

karen said...

I would love to hear more about your class-get out of the atuo zone. thanks

frogglet said...

how exciting and what a wonderful way to help and give back to such a wonderful organization.
I love seeing your photos it is thrilling to know we are going to be there so soon, I don't think we are going to be allowed to go to the SWI We have had no response from our request. So I am so happy that I can show these pictures to Chloe and know a little of what it was like there.

Courtney said...

Beautiful pictures and what a wonderful post! Very inspiring!

Katie said...

Beautifully touching photos, as always. They make me want to rush over there and bring an entire room full of kids home!

How incredibly exciting for you!! Isn't it amazing how God works things into our lives?!

Anonymous said...

Yay!!!!!!! I'm there for workshop #2!!! Maybe the online class too! I was just thinking about researching a workshop to attend this year, so this would be perfect!

Love all the pictures and I'm very excited for you and this organization. I'm going to check out their site now!

Jboo said...

Hi Lisa -- would love to come out in person and do a workshop, but not sure that is feasible. Maybe an online one, but not sure if March would work. Anyway, so happy for you and for the children you will help. It is so true your life (mine too) is changed in so many ways after a trip to China! Bless your sweet and giving heart!

xoxo

Janet

Jewels of My Heart said...

The photos are beautiful! What treasures....
Thank you for blessing the children through HTS! Sounds wonderful!
God's Blessings,
Daleea

Patricia said...

These photos are breathtakinly beautiful & I am sitting here with tears in my eyes as they bring back so many memories of our trip to China as well...and those precious faces, oh my goodness, my heart aches for those children still waiting for a family.

What really struck me is how your talents & passions have taken you in a wonderful direction to help those children in China. I think this is wonderful Lisa, & I am so happy for you!! You have such a talent & I think it is such a "God thing", if you will, that your incredible talent will help others in need...FABULOUS!!!!

What a great start to 2011!!
HUGS to you, my friend!!

Pix-Ology said...

You.amaze.me.
Such wonderful news all over your posting today, I am so excited for you, for the kids, for the photograpehrs who will learn tons from you! Can't wait to see it all come together, keep me informed, would love to keep on learning from you!
Janet

Joanna said...

Your stories & pictures are always so stunning & inspiring :)

t~ said...

This is fabulous! It shows exactly what the blog/adoption community can do together for those children left behind.

What an exciting adventure!

Your photos of the babies left behind are not forgotten. I have studied each expression on their face and have prayed for each one. Their eyes speak the world to me and I know others will feel it too and be inspired by these heartfelt photos.

JMCS said...

Lisa,

I loved looking at those images you captured while in China and my heart breaks for the children left behind. I am so very proud of you for receiving such a wonderful opportunity from HTS. Your images are amazing and speak volumes about the plight of children in China.

Hugs,
Jonni

Anonymous said...

Love your photos. And your heart for China. Please let me know when you have more info about the online classes- I'm definitely interested!

Stefanie said...

Those pictures are just stunning, Lisa. The orphanage pictures just tug at my heart...
Exciting you'll be working for orphans with your talents :)

Debbie said...

I think that is just wonderful Lisa...and will hopefully make a difference in China.
How on earth do you fit everything in? I need to take a class from you in time management never mind photography!
Love Dx

Anonymous said...

These are soooo stunning and beautiful! You should publish a book! Can't wait to hear more about your new venture. I will email you about the photography classes. Thanks, Wendy

Christine @ 12,450miles said...

I squealed with glee when I saw you were offering online classes. I'd love to hear more when you hash out all the details...

www.12450miles.com
blogging[at]12450miles[dot]com

Sue said...

Congrats on your new venture!

Your photos of China are stunning..brings me right back to being there in 2006 and how much I loved it. Thanks.

I would interested in your 4 week online course. : )

Sue

V said...

Great photos! I would love to take your on-line course but... I live in Paraguay and I don't have a DSLR :o( maybe next time...
I don't know if you know this blog: http://www.nogreaterjoymom.com/
it's a beautiful blog about adoption, you'll be inspired by this wonderful woman and how she helps orphans, I think you could help those who kids in China and find a family for them.

Little Mochi said...

Thank you for sharing such stunning and moving photos!

Lexi said...

These pictures are incredible and so are the stories behind them! Thank you for letting us into the world you saw in China.

Shonni said...

I love your photo’s and would love to be included in any classes that you do...
Thank you
Shonni

Gina Kleinworth said...

These are stunning photos. I was absolutely sucked in to each one. So happy that another hop I was on lead me to you and yours. I will be here frequently.

Everything Beautiful Shay said...

Your photos are stunning and stirring!!! My heart aches for all the ones still there and makes my heart stop to think my two could still be there if I had not followed my heart to China and back. SO thankful I did and have two precious loves playing right here right now. I pray your posts causes someone to go!!! SO excited about your new project~ I would love to take your online photography class but will depend on funds at the time. :) I am sewing again so that will help.
Blessings and Joy to you!

Kelly said...

I am new to blogging but have really enjoyed it since starting it last Feb when we received our referral for our daughter. I'd love more information on your online photography class so that I could learn to take some of the types of pics I see posted here!

Ashley Sisk said...

Wow - what good news! Today's post is absolutely beautiful but even more beautiful is the blessings that have come from your journey. I am so excited for you and the joy that your work is bringing children in China...and around the world. You inspire me!

BA said...

These photos are amazing--Love the red sneakers, the train station shots and that bridge are incredible!!!!! I just sent you an e-mail--but PLEASE PLEASE add me to your distribution list!!!!!!
BA

Debbie and Sam said...

I am very interested in your beginner class. Please add me to your distribution list.
deborah.apperson@cox.net

The Smittys said...

i love it. we are preparing and praying to adopt our 4th. just found your blog today and i love it all!

jade said...

Dear Lisa,
You had me all emotional again with this post and the pictures in it.
Best wishes for the new year: it sounds like it will be well filled! I am with Debbie: if you're ever giving a(n online) course on time management, I am very interested too!
By the way: ALL your pictures are stunning, those from China, but all the newer ones too! You have a beautiful family, I wish them all good health for the year (luck they have already with you in their life!).
Happy to hear more about your plans for China and its children.

eemster2009 said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Angel Rogers said...

Beautiful and storytelling photos. I had tears in my eyes when I read everything you have done by your talent. Thank you for being a voice and instrument to acknowledge, honor and help these children and the foundation. I am humbled.

eemster2009 said...

Hi,

I'm sorry I didn't ask you permission to send a link to your blog: I am the one who contacted Half the Sky on 11/29/10 and posted the link to your blog. I was so moved by both your pictures and recounting of your experiences that I wanted to see if there was some way to help, but didn't quite know how to describe the little boy in orange. That's why I sent the link and specified the picture with the little boy. In hindsight, I should have asked your permission, and I apologize for that.

Thank you so much for sharing your story. Your compassion and empathy are truly inspiring.

Half Gaelic, Half Garlic! said...

eemster2009,

I am thinking my asking who it was that inquired with half the sky came across the wrong way.

I am not upset in the least...... I AM EXTREMELY HAPPY and thankful that you contacted them and sent them the link to my blog!

I wanted to know who you were so that I could personally thank you for caring enough to want to reach out and help this little guy and also for opening this new door for me.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart!

xoxo,

Lisa

eemster2009 said...

Hi Lisa,

Sorry again! Your tone was not at all upset: it just occurred to me as I read that part of your entry that there are various discussions out there on blogs, links, etc., and I hadn't thought of those issues when I originally inquired about the little boy and posted the link to your blog.

And you're right: one can support the orphanage, but not a specific child (in case others like myself didn't know this).

Thanks again for your kindness, and congratulations on your wonderful news and work!

Mimi said...

Oh Lisa, I am overwhelmed by this post - the photos, the words, your kindness, generosity.
I'm not really interested in photography, my camera is a point and shoot and that's enough for me so I'm unsure about the classes. But other thoughts are going round in my head of how I could help, cos I would like to. Leave it with me, ok? Maybe an aromatherapy sale?

Steffie B. said...

I know that you will do a wonderful job at this type of project. Advocating for the orphans is what we all need to do.

Hopefully I will see you at workshop #2 as well. ;)

Steffie

Natalie said...

What you're doing/did/have done is so great. My cousin was adopted out of Korea when she was a year old and now is 24 and another cousin married into my family was adopted from Korea as well. I love them both very much! I am so glad you are helping HTS and your photos are wonderful! I've followed your story for a while and think that this is great news! Hope your year is fantastic and great things happen!

Diane said...

Hi Lisa,

So, So Beautiful!!! You continue to amaze us all in everything you do. Would love to attend your on-line class!

Blessings,
Diane

comingaroundagain said...

I love these photos. Our daughter is from the same orphanage / city (Chenzhou) and I love seeing the photos since we did not have to travel there when in Changsha. Did you happen to get any photos the Suxian theater about 2 blocks from the orphanage (would love to see any if so, by chance)??!! Yes, HTS was / is a lifesaver for our precious daughter. Love them. I love what you are doing too!!

jenna ♥ a little blue said...

i would definitely be interested in getting more info in your online course :)

Cindy said...

you have captured some beautiful images of China.
I would love to get more information of our online class.

Kelly And Allison said...

LOVE LOVE LOVE those beautiful pictures of Changcha. Love your project idea also. Please add me to your list of distribution.

Tina

Shari said...

Lisa,
I just sent you an email - I have a feeling you have a few to sort through. I'm thinking you need another personal assistant!
Thank you for your good work!

Jodee said...

These pictures are amazing! I especially love the ones with the sweet kiddos. They are just precious!

I am super excited about your Half the Sky project! I know it will be very successful too!

Missy said...

Beautiful pictures!! I love all of them, but the ones of the children are so touching. They make me want to cry. Photography is meant to evoke emotion and you did that in these pictures. What treasures. I am so glad to know some of these little ones are being sponsored by HTS. I love their organization. Awesome that you are working with them! I have no doubt that you will be a HUGE success!!! Good for you! God's speed on your endeavor and I pray that it blesses those sweet little faces that are in these photos and many more precious faces. xoxo

The 5 Bickies said...

I love this post! Your photos are beautiful and your heart for these children is wonderful! I am so excited that you will have the opportunity to use your amazing talent to benefit these children.

I am very interested in your online course as well as the advanced session. Will have to chat with you to be sure the advanced will be a good fit.

Branson said...

Absolutley stunning! I am glad I stumbled upon a b/w wed button and look forward to following your blog!

Anonymous said...

Been following your blog since your travels. love it!

Maddy said...

Oh Lisa!! It's wonderful that you're sharing your incredible talent with not only those little ones in China, but with the rest of us too! I'm looking forward to the Advanced photography classes and to seeing you and Miss Marla again :)

Lily's Pad said...

I think it is wonderful that you will share your talent to help these children. I too cannot forget the images and children that I saw while there to get our daughter...

I have visited your site for sometime and have really loved viewing your photos. For some reason, I can only see the narrative and not the photographs. Is anyone else having this issue? Please let me know if there is something I need to change on my computer, etc.

I will also be interested in the online photography sessions.

Thanks,

Mary

Kath said...

Sign me up for the online course! I've been looking for just this type of beginning photography course to get to know my new Nikon D5000 and life with my two sweetest China girls.
Kath

from mel said...

your blog is so, so inspiring. you are incredible!

Becky said...

First time here.

Thanks for the invitation. I have 3 very close friends (families) who have adopted little ones from China. What a joy and a blessing to share love.

Under His grace,

Becky

Heather L. Charles said...

I am very interested in attending your class. I was referred to you by Denise Feagans. Please add me to your distribution list as well as any information about your class.

Thank you so much!!

Heather Charles

Shari U said...

I would definitely be interested in an online course, particularly if it's targeted to beginners. The pictures you have just shared are amazing, some of them made me feel like I was in China again, you've really captured the feel. I find the pictures of the children in the orphanage physically painful to look at, I'm so glad to know at least a few of them are being or have been adopted. We've had our little girl (also a Hunan girl) home with us now for 7 years, sometimes, especially when she's sick, I imagine her being alone and it breaks my heart. Every child deserves a mommy and daddy, good for you, volunteering to help these children left behind. Your Reagan becomes more and more beautiful every day.

M3 said...

Beautiful pictures, beautiful heart. :-)
Hugs,
M3

3 Peanuts said...

First of all these images are STUNNING...each and every one of them!!!! Secondly, you know I am SO SO SO interested...not in the "get out of auto class"..because I do shoot in manual...but I need to step it up in post processing and composition etc...


I think you should come to TEXAS! I could get a few people rustled up I am sure:)

Whatever you do, please keep me in the loop for whatever you have coming up!!!!

Photography said...

What an emotional post and the photo's are all so gorgeous! I just tarted a 365 http://flowerphotography1.blogspot.com/ very simple compared to your beautiful place here!

Unknown said...

The photos are amazing and such a wonderful story you have to tell

Rach Leeke said...

OMGGGGG PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE count me in for any online workshops you do. I lov both of you girls work so much
Rach From Melbourne Australia

Melody Lietzau said...

First of all I can't tell you how much it touched my heart to see the pictures of Hunan and Changsha. Our daughter is From Hunan as well. I would love to take an online class. I just Got a Cannon Eos T1I for Christmas and have no idea what I'm doing :)

Kristin said...

Images of China....breathtaking!

Your photography just keeps becoming more amazing!

Your new daughter...what a answered prayer.
That makes me smile for you. She is precious
and I know you are over the moon in love with her.

Nadette said...

I don't usually comment, but I have say I think this new opporutunity for you is so very awesome! and I'm also excited for the prospect of online photography course, because it's high time I upgrade my camera and learn how to take a decent picture

Natalie said...

Lovely photos and a great way to use your talents to help those still waiting for their families.
We travel in the spring to get our 10 year old girl. You have inspired me to look for photo ops as we are out and about in China. I just love what you captured on your trip!

Michelle said...

My friend DeAnn is very interested in the online classes. I will have her e-mail you directly. Thanks!

Briana's Mom said...

That is so wonderful Lisa! I can't think of a better person to work with HTS! Hugs!

Lisa said...

I love to take your on line course. I think your photos are so lovely.

Lisa

De Lucchi Family Treasures said...

Wow Lisa, you are going to have a wopping class by the looks of it!! How exciting!! Isnt it amazing how God opens doors and even when you dont go looking he can send you on the path he had planned out all along for your life. I felt the same when we were invited to go to Thailand to volunteer in orphanages there with CARE FOR CHILDREN, who primarily work in China, getting the kids out of orphanages and into foster homes. Hope to go back to China this year, God willing.
Would love to be added to your list for online classes, unless you are coming to the UK??? Maybe I could help you host a UK workshop as there seems to be a few interested parties in Europe?
Love and Hugs
Jules
xxx

Jen said...

Hi Lisa! I, too, would love more informatio about your 4 week online class! Praying all things work out for your new HTS project as well.

Heather said...

Don't you LOVE that rock I live under??? How has it taken me this long to get to this???

Truly, your talent amazes me. This post was so long in the coming..I have prayed for this type of opportunity for you for as long as I have known you!!!!!!! I am thrilled!

And I am happy to report I am sporting a new camera :) Now, it is far from a high tech model, it is about as bare bones as they come, but it was a gift and a blessing from someone very, very dear to me who wants me to learn all the basics. Anyway, all that lingo may actually come in handy now, so you know I will be taking one of the three workshops being offered!!

I am so happy for you, Lisa. I love your "get it done" attitude that meshes beautifully with your great big heart.

May this year be truly blessed in every single way!

Love,
Heather

Faith, Hope, and Love said...

Your photos are amazing!! I would love to take your online classes after I get my girl home. I have followed many blogs to China over the years but have never seen anything like the way in which you captured your journey. Truly breathtaking and touching.

This will be our 4th trip to China and may be the first time I will have the opportunity to visit an orphanage. I would imagine it is life changing. My heart breaks every day for the orphans and I wish many more hearts would open their homes to them.

Thank you for using your God given talent to help HTS. They are a wonderful organization and how you will bless their mission!

I can't believe it's been 3 months since Reagan was placed in your arms. Happy Anniversary! She looks so happy drenched in her family's love.

Love and blessings,
Robin

Faith, Hope, and Love said...

Your photos are amazing!! I would love to take your online classes after I get my girl home. I have followed many blogs to China over the years but have never seen anything like the way in which you captured your journey. Truly breathtaking and touching.

This will be our 4th trip to China and may be the first time I will have the opportunity to visit an orphanage. I would imagine it is life changing. My heart breaks every day for the orphans and I wish many more hearts would open their homes to them.

Thank you for using your God given talent to help HTS. They are a wonderful organization and how you will bless their mission!

I can't believe it's been 3 months since Reagan was placed in your arms. Happy Anniversary! She looks so happy drenched in her family's love.

Love and blessings,
Robin

Anonymous said...

Very interested in the workshop.
Enjoyed looking at your beautiful pictures.

Wendy said...

I'd also be interested in your workshops.

These Are The Days said...

Lisa,

For Soph's 4th Birthday I'm throwing a {adoption linky party}. I'm hoping you'll link up to help me spread the message & miracle of adoption!!!

xoxo,
Jessica

Hive for the Home said...

I LOVE your blog!! My husband and I are in the process of adopting from China. Your photos are amazing!! Thank you for opening your life to us I am sincerely encouraged!

Unknown said...

Hi Your blog is beautiful and the pictures tears ot our eyes. Wish we could adopt them all:)

I am very interested in your 4 week online course so please add me to your list.

Thank you Teri
tbp134@yahoo.com

Kuppy said...

Look at those gorgeous little children! Me and my husband have always talked about adopting, he wants 3 kids and I cannot physically have a third child. Your story just touched my heart. Thank you for sharing it with us. And, I am super stoked about your online workshop! Please let me know where to sign up! I live in GA, so it isnt very likely that I can jump on a plane and come to PA. As much as I love it out there. :) I am extremely into photogra[hy, but never knew where to start or how to.

CjBriana said...

the online course sounds great!!