Monday, August 16, 2010

Xi'an - Day 5 - Another Busy Day

Today we had to meet our agency guide, Sissia, in the hotel lobby at 8 am.  I think all the drama yesterday really wore Lia out, because I had to wake her up in order to get us all fed and down to the lobby by 8 am. You know that saying, "never wake a sleeping baby?" Yes, well, we found out today how true that statement really is. Poor Lia was still sleepy and NOT happy...

WAY too early mom!

Unfortunately, we had to go back to the Civil Affairs office TWICE today (the scene of all yesterday's drama) - in order to complete paperwork. So each time, our poor girl got herself wound up again, only for all of us to be standing around in hot offices for long periods of time with no A/C... In addition to two trips to the Civil Affairs office, we also made trips to get our first "official" family photo taken, and a trip to the local police station to have her passport photo taken. Lots of standing around and waiting...


Seriously??? Can we leave yet???

On the bright side, the adoption became "official" today in the eyes of the Chinese government. They made it very clear, that she is all ours and we can't give her back (as if we'd ever want to - NOT!!!) We were able to pick up a light-weight stroller for her yesterday afternoon, which has made all of these office visits much more tolerable. However, as much as Lia seems to like me when we're at the hotel room playing - no one else in the world except Steve exists once we leave the hotel!  There are really only two choices... in the stroller - or Steve carrying her...at all times.

Back at the hotel, we had some fun playing with her new doll:



...and her colorful stacking cups have provided hours of fun (thank you auntie Megan!):


We also tried a bath tonight for the first time. So far I have to report, Lia is not a fan. I thought maybe the stacking cups would provide some fun bathtime distraction, but to no avail...so our wailing child was in and out of the tub in record time!

A smile for daddy...pre-bath!

After pajamas, and a bottle, she is crashed out cold in her crib. Thankfully, tomorrow is a free day, so no rush to get anywhere in the morning. So far, so good...thanks for all the wonderful comments, prayers, and positive vibes being sent our way - they are surely being felt!  :)

I told you people...NO MORE PICTURES!

10 comments:

Taylor said...

I am so happy that Lia looks as if she is starting to come out of her shell she is starting to act like the Lia I remember this summer. I cannot wait for you to see her full spunkster self. She will come around more to mom soon but I bet dad is enojying his time.

Jerad said...

This is without doubt, one of the coolest things I have ever got to witness in my life. I'm so happy for you and Steve. Lia couldn't ask for more caring people to take her in, and it's strange how she almost "looks" like you Julie... it's weird, but in a good way :). Have fun over there!

Kim said...

Could this child be any cutier? I just love those big brown puppy dog eyes and those cheeks! You're doing great! Don't worry...she'll warm up to you. Just keep that eye contact going and you'll be fine. So, so happy for you guys!

Love,
Kim and Alina

Megan in Denver said...

Could she be any cuter? Love the hair, love the eyes, love the dress...love EVERYTHING!!!

I bet she has melted Steve's heart by "choosing" him while outside of the hotel. It won't take her long to know and love her mama above all.

Anonymous said...

She is just beautiful!! You look like a natural Mama and Baba! Oh tears of joy seeing her with you.
CONGRATULATIONS!!

Kristine

Jenna said...

She's beautiful! So happy for you!

Debbie Sauer said...

Precious little girl! So much has happened to her the past few days, every day will get better and better. I am so glad that she has you to love her. Blessings Looking forward to more pictures.

kitchu said...

i am living for your updates. she is such a doll. i remember how rough it was being piloted from one place to another with a tired, frightened (and in our case really sick) kiddo. it does get better, each day. loved seeing her little grin. it took us 9 days to get one!

Amy W. said...

Julie, I'm glad to hear things are going well. I know Lia is having a tough time, but it sounds like there has been improvement, and I know it will continue to get better. She is cute as a button! I can't wait to meet you guys in Guangzhou. We'll be there Friday night!

Marlene said...

A Tennessee fan of your Life WITH Lia...SOoo glad your day has come..It makes me so happy for you that my heart flutters with joy..LIFE is going to be like a holiday~~I just know!!!