Hello Sweet Emma!

Happy New Year!

2009-02-07T22:35:00.001-08:00

This year we celebrated Chinese New Year, for the first time- We went with friends for dim sum in our international district, and then watched the CNY festivities in the streets. The next day we went to a wonderful gathering for families with children from China- Emma was transfixed by the performances of Chinese dances, and has been imitating them in our living room since.

Emma did eventually recover from her Christmas illness... we were never really sure what she had, but it was a doozy. Our Christmas was very quiet. I included a few pre-Christmas things here too.

Emma's favorite things these days are Barbies, Polly Pockets, understanding how the human body works, ocean animals, elephants/mammoths/mastodons. Dance performances in the living room (fully dressed in layers of dressup clothes) after dinner. Team jerseys (she is in a little sports class and often wears hers to bed). And not a day goes by that I don't stop and wonder how I got so blessed to have this wonderful girl in my life..

A Quiet Christmas

2008-12-24T19:42:00.001-08:00

This year, we opted not to travel for the holidays, and stay home.. I was looking forward to being here for Christmas, and made all sorts of plans. Seattle got snowed in, and it was beautiful. Emma and I had a memorable trip to visit friends, her on her pink saucer, flying along on the sidewalk, and me pulling, walking/running and enjoying the exercise. I decided the next day we’d get out the skis I had bought her as an early Christmas present.

And that evening Emma suddenly got very sick, with sustained high fevers/chills, body pains, later an awful cough. Some sort of flu (tho we both were immunized) or a flu-like virus. We’ve been house-bound since then, except for a trip (with chains on the car) to the doc, as more and more snow fell. It has been 5 days, and Emma is still fairly sick, only now starting to improve.

So tomorrow we will spend the day, just of the two of us together, unwrapping presents, and it is totally ok… All I need in this world, right now, is to see her recovering and happy. This season has been a good reminder of what is really important- our loved ones and our health. Merry Christmas everyone.

Thanksgiving at Rainier, Santa's coming!

2008-12-13T00:06:00.000-08:00

We had our traditional (for us) Thanksgiving on Mount Rainier, shared with our Seattle 'family'. A little sun, a little snow falling... perfect. Emma threw the first snowball.

Christmas is so much fun with a 4yo, Emma is totally into it. She was most impressed that Santa actually made it to Seattle, at the Tgiving w/e parade. Our tree is now up, I'd post a pic but the rest of the place is in chaos. This weekend..

Emma turns four, and 2yr Anniversary

2008-11-28T22:42:00.000-08:00

The end of October is a busy time of year for us- Halloween, Emma's birthday, and our anniversary together. Emma was a cute-as-a-button Dora for Halloween- we went trick or treating at the nearby shopping center, it has a walking area.. what a scene, full of tots in costume. Emma was wide-eyed at all the candy being given out.. I don't think she knew that much candy existed. Very fun. The photo is of her preschool class in their Halloween finery.

We had a "Dora" birthday party, complete with a Dora adventure (Swiper stole the bday cake, the girls needed to follow the map to find it). "Big kids" Sam and Helen dressed up in costume for their roles, part of the hunt wound thru the back yard, etc. Kind of hard to explain in a sentence/two, but Emma is still talking about it.

On our "Gotcha Day", I gave Emma a Chinese silk dress. Two years is a bit of a marking point- for only now has Emma has been with me, as long as she was in China. This is a thoughtful time of the year for me- we celebrate Emma's birthday, and at the same time I think of those in China that took care of her for so long. I can't even begin to imagine parting with a child after two years, and I wonder how her foster parents are. And of course her birthparents are in my mind at this time.

Emma is still recovering from her fall, both physically and emotionally.. this next week we will start getting some additional help, on both accounts, to hopefully help things along.

Scary fall

2008-10-23T21:46:00.001-07:00

Emma took a bad fall from the play structure at her little preschool... climbing on the rounded outside of a tunnel, where it wasn't designed for kids to go... it was on the backside of the structure, out of direct view of the teacher. Needless to say, they are making some changes and it looks like a new play structure will be implemented. It happened 5 minutes before I arrived to pick her up, Emma was so shaken she couldn't communicate.. I immediately packed her in her carseat and drove her to our Children's Hospital ER, where we spent the next 6 hours getting xrays, a CT, etc. Fortunately no damage to the bones.

Emma spent a week in a neck collar- and is rapidly recovering. But it will take her longer to feel secure again. Our old nemesis, separation anxiety, is back.. We will get past this in time again, on her schedule.

What a summer

2008-09-12T22:58:00.001-07:00

What a summer! Much of it was spent outdoors enjoying the various local outdoor pools and beaches. Emma's Aunt Pam and her boys met us in Oregon for a wonderful week of camping. Emma's cousin Emily came for a visit (during an atypical heat wave). And at the end of the summer we spent a few weekends in a row, cramming in lots of camping and high mountain meadow experiences (ummhh.. most elevation gain done by the car). Emma loves picking huckleberries in the mountains, and just being outside- she has a genuine appreciation for outdoor beauty that I adore.

July 4th in the snow

2008-07-06T23:38:00.000-07:00

Emma and I had a wonderful Fourth at Mt Rainier- playing in the snow up high, hiking in the big trees lower down. Up high we saw a black fox and a white fox, both very close. Emma spotted a nearby marmot first and was thrilled.. she's been pretending to be a marmot (call and all) since. Best memories were just hanging on the lodge porch, eating and reading and watching the nearby deer.

Car Camping

2008-06-04T22:50:00.001-07:00

Just a pic from last weekend, our first camping trip of the year, with friends. Emma loves hanging with the 'big girls'. We are at that stage where Emma is too heavy to be carried, and too young to walk very far.. so for a couple years, car camping will be our thing. I do admit to missing the mountains, but am looking forward to exploring them with Miss E, when she gets her hiking legs!

Folklife Fools

2008-06-04T22:31:00.000-07:00

Emma and I had a wonderful Memorial Day weekend, going to our Folklife Festival for a portion of three days. Emma and I danced our first little contra dance together (a sweet 8yo helped Emma on her side of the line).. wish I had that on video. New this year, Emma was into the fair food. And the amusement park... loving the spaceship that flew around, and up and down, at a rather good clip.

Visit from Nana

2008-05-23T23:17:00.001-07:00

Mom came for a visit, and we had a wonderful time- a fancy-schmancy Mother's Day brunch, a magical day at the zoo, a trip to a nearby beach, etc. Emma loved having her Nana here, and is still talking about it.

Beach season opener

2008-04-13T23:15:00.002-07:00

A visit up to a nearby beach yesterday- it was unseasonably warm and sunny. The tide was way out.. a trip to get water for sand castles led to rather quick shedding of clothing, and Miss E couldn't get enough of the (quite cold) water.. We hadn't anticipated needing a bathing suit (truth to be told, we were headed to do some hiking but changed plans as Emma's little legs were tired from the bike trip the day before). Gosh what a day.

It's all about the bike

2008-04-13T23:15:00.001-07:00

Emma has a bike, and is totally enthralled with it. She had to learn all the words for the components, and wore her helmet more often than not, inside, for a few days. In fairly short order she's gotten the hang of the coaster brake, and occasionally I have to break out of a fast walk to keep up :-) Now I watch her testing- trying out steering with one hand, killing time waiting for a slower companion by weaving back and forth..

Misc Pics

2008-04-13T23:12:00.004-07:00

Spring

2008-04-13T23:12:00.003-07:00

Happy Valentines Day

2008-04-13T23:12:00.001-07:00

holder

2008-04-13T23:11:00.001-07:00

Snow Fun

2008-04-13T23:09:00.003-07:00

We've been up to the snow a few times- Emma loves just being out, and her bright pink saucer. One sunny day we were out and Emma announced she had to pee.. after a trial run, she succeeded, behind a tree(no easy feat in a bulky one-piece snowsuit). She proudly announced "I'm a mountain pee-er!" Now that's my girl. Carseat shot is a tired and happy Emma, ready to go home.

Christmas

2008-04-13T23:09:00.001-07:00

Rocking Horse Video

2008-04-13T23:07:00.000-07:00

This video was taken early-December, with Emma riding her beloved Diamond.

Thanksgiving

2007-11-23T23:54:00.000-08:00

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We had a wonderful day playing around on Mt. Rainier, including a tailgate Thanksgiving picnic, with the Schantz/Madeleine and Pearson clans. Emma loved it all- the powdery snow, the beauty of the mountain, and being with all her favorite people.

Visit back East

2007-11-23T23:50:00.000-08:00

Emma and I traveled back to Massachusetts to visit family- Mom made Emma another birthday cake (Emma grinning from ear to ear when seeing the cake coming.. she gets the birthday thing now). We had fun kicking around in the leaves with my folks, and visiting Heather and her adorable son Meyer. Also Emma met, for the first time, her namesake, visiting her great-grandmother.

Third Birthday, Gotcha Day Anniversary, Halloween

2007-11-01T23:51:00.000-07:00

October 30th marked one year since I met Emma ("Gotcha Day" in adoption circles). This year I gave her some things I had bought for her in China one year ago- a traditional Chinese comb, a coin purse, a painted fan, and a Chinese drum (which works splendidly). Emma has been learning about her personal history, and understood that I had brought these things back from China, when I adopted her.

We celebrated her birthday, with a cake and friends. Emma loves any kind of party, she had a great time.

Emma looked so cute in her Halloween costume- she is just now getting into "dress up"; the day before she had insisted on wearing the costume, wings and all, on a trip to the grocery store.

Pumpkins and such

2007-11-01T00:20:00.000-07:00

Just photos for now!

2007-10-31T00:26:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful summer. Pam and her family came for 2 weeks, one of which was spent camping- Emma loved being around her cousins, and everything about camping. Lots of camping trips- favorite memories are tidepooling, walking on wild ocean beaches, seeing whale spouts, and reading bedtime books by the fire. Emma falling asleep on my back, down a long downhill, and Alan going back up a mile to retrieve a hiking boot that had somehow fallen off enroute.

Sweet Seattle Summer!

2007-07-13T00:09:00.000-07:00

Enjoying our summer!

Enjoying our summer

2007-06-01T23:32:00.000-07:00

Can't believe it has been so long since posting. Life is flying along, and we are enjoying the (sometimes) summer weather. Got Emma up her first 'real' mountain (she insisted on walking a fair bit), and she loved it. And fell asleep in the pack on the way down :-) Then did a shake-down car camping trip with Alan and Casandra, complete with Emma's first campfire and marshmallow s'mores.

Had one of the nicest afternons last weekend, at Folklife, our big music festival in town. We just roamed, listening to a song or so from each performer, and then moving on. Emma loved all the music, listening with full attention, and often was the first to yell "yay!" and clap at the end. The previous day (we went 2 days) I had to physically stop her from running out to join the break dancers, she was so into it. There are also kiddie amusement rides there, and Emma's caught the bug- on her first solo ride (cars on a track), I put her next to another child and moved away.. she was just about to burst into tears when the ride started- she was soon waving and laughing.

Emma is singing up a storm these days, mastered the alphabet song, do-re-mi, and many of the usual songs... today she was working on supercalifragilisticexpialodocious. Cruel, I know. She takes such joy in singing and hearing others sing (she's the only one that ever applauded my efforts), so fun to watch.

Tidepooling and hiking

2007-04-30T23:15:00.000-07:00

Just a few pics- Jerry and Michele came with us for some local tidepooling, on one of the low summer tides. We saw all kinds of anenomes, flame red sea cucumbers, large starfish, and a seastar. Emma mostly loved just being on the beach, or at water's edge, digging and playing with seaweed.

We've gotten out hiking a bit (well, I hike and Emma gets carried, or Emma happily meanders and we move at a rather erratic pace)... I love it that she's learning words like moss, fern, stream, and trail, experiencing the (unnerving to her) racket of a woodpecker, and calling my attention to faces she sees in the trees and rocks.

Emma and I have been together for six months now... Meg Ryan, who adopted her daughter Daisy from China in Jan06, recently said in a Redbook interview "I am convinced, completely convinced, that there was nothing random about the adoption, she is the daughter I should (ie was meant to) have." I feel exactly the same way.

Easter Egg Hunt

2007-04-09T21:55:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful Easter, complete with an Easter basket and an Easter egg hunt in the back yard- The morning was uncharacteristically sunny and warm,and folks came over for brunch. And then "the girls" retired to Emma's room to read books.

Emma loves the outdoors- I got her on a mini hike, and we spent a long time tossing leaves and sticks into a little stream. Coming back, at a T in the trail, I asked Emma if she wanted to go left to the car, or right to see more- Emma took off to the right, laughing, and got into a bit of trail running! This bodes well for this summer..

Kendall took this picture of Emma bundled up in her car, off on another adventure!

Emma's settled in

2007-03-30T21:35:00.000-07:00

If someone asked me how long it took, for Emma to feel like she’s settled in… I’d say 4-5 months. Something has changed in the past few weeks, Emma's anxiety seems gone, and she's just more relaxed. Emma is fine when I go off to work, she gives me a hug and is secure that I’ll be back. She’ll wander away from me, at a gathering, or a playground, and explore. She’s fine with either of her nannies, happily going away from the house with them. She’s ok if I give another child attention, or pick them up. The other day at Trader Joe's she flirted shamelessly with the cashier, and never took her smiling eyes off him as he wheeled her in the cart thru to the front of the checkout- it wasn't that long ago that I needed to be conscious of getting her wheeled thru quickly, or (in the early days) on my side, so she wouldn't start to panic. Emma's day seems pretty good right now- weekday mornings maybe an errand with me and then a park, weekday afternoons napping and most often going to a park with Kendall or Weihua, dinner and then evening with lots of books before bed.

In the past weeks Emma moved from shapes to numbers and now to colors. She has a puzzle with the numbers, and she called out tenderly to each one, like greeting a long-lost friend, as she put it in place… Five!.. In the past few days she’s been focusing on colors- calling out “that’s red! this is blue! all the time. Emma is almost combative about learning- “what’s that!” is the most frequent expression she uses. She doesn’t much care if she initially gets things wrong, she just keeps trying out words til she gets it right.

It has been awhile since posting- with Emma settling in later at night, it has really limited my time to do things. So I put in lots of pictures-

We went to Beckon and Mark’s beautiful wedding. Emma got dressed up in a velvet dress and patent leather shoes, and had a great time- as always, loving goofing around with Owen (in the pic with her, looking rather handsome).

We really enjoy the ferry, I promise no more ferry pics after these. Emma always makes a friend/two, you never know what’ll happen. (This time Emma again asked to fly).

It is spring here, and Emma loves the flowers. Walking to the front door we always pick something in the yard, and she has little bunches of flowers in glasses by her placemat, she’s learning their names. (Hug.. cherry tree.. she said the other day as we were driving past a row in full bloom)

I posted pics of Helen (with Emma on trikes) and Michelle (with Emma at Owen's birthday party).

Looking back, we’ve had a few bouts of illness- several days of Emma spiking fevers, kind of spooky, then she was totally fine. I am on the tail end of a nasty chest cold, but now Emma has come down with it. A toothache and root canal in there (which was surprisingly painless, to my surprise, I had a great doc). We've both been so healthy post-China, maybe just the odds catching up with us.

Kendall and Weihua sit with Emma in the afternoons. I am so lucky to have them in our life, and Emma loves them both. Kendall is the first non-family member that Emma has felt totally secure with. Weihua started recently, and is (re)teaching Emma some Mandarin- she’s forgotten all/most of it, but seems to be picking it up again easily. The picture with Kendall was taken a couple months ago, the picture with Weihua a few days ago- Emma is growing up so quickly…

Ferry ride

2007-03-08T19:55:00.000-08:00

Emma took her first ferry ride and loved it- We went with Alan, to check out his new office in Silverdale. Breakfast was on the boat, watching the world go by. Coming back Emma and I were on our own- we went up to the open top deck, near the front, where it was really windy and the gulls were soaring just above the boat. Emma looked up and asked 'fly?' I'd previously held her so she could pretend to fly in the living room, belly down and arms outstretched... this was very near the real thing, a bit of a 'Titanic' moment, as she was head into the wind, arms out, watching the boat plow thru the water and the birds soar overhead.

These days Emma picks out squares, ovals, triangles, etc, wherever she goes. Today she 'got' the library, we went to story time, and then picked out some books and checked them out. Emma proudly carried the stack of books outside... Another milestone today- Emma went in Kendall's car to an indoor playspace, first time in a car without me.. only a bit anxious leaving, and when she came back she happily announced "I'm back".

Prose of the previous post sure sounded tired... it was- Emma is making good progress on the sleep issue, finally..

Music and first real haircut

2007-02-25T21:53:00.000-08:00

We started a toddler music/dance class at one of the local community centers- Emma was transfixed by the woman with the guitar and sweet voice (something her mama definitely does not have).

We also went to the big Garden Show, with Liz and Becky. Random, that best describes Emma's motion there (the backpack and front wrap were both rejected once inside)... but we stayed a few hours, and it was nice to see the Lathrops. Emma was mostly interested in the water fountains and statuary.

Emma had her first real haircut here, and did just fine. Wish I'd done it sooner, it looks really cute.

Sleep.. well the crib is gone- more a statement of what had already occurred than anything else (as Emma refused to use it). Emma's mattress is on the floor, with a safety rail, that will work til she's ready for a higher toddler bed. Naps are infrequent now too. Finding a new sleeptime routine is an ongoing project, we've had all sorts of variations but nothing consistently works just yet. Things change so quickly I'm sure we'll get it figured out. Soon I hope :-)

Emma (finally) sleeps

2007-02-13T22:41:00.000-08:00

What happened to the golden night-time routine of the past few weeks?? A few books, sweet kisses and "goodnight Emma" followed by a return of "goodnight Mama", and I'd leave the room. A distant memory. Almost a week ago, on the last page of "Goodnight Moon", a sleepy Emma wriggled off the rocking chair and visibly shook herself awake. And proceeded to be a wired child til 11:30- with some variation on this for the next few nights. I tried everything... and the only way she'll let herself fall asleep before total exhaustion is in the stroller. So stroller it is, twice a day- for naps, and at bedtime. Truth is, this works for both of us- Emma always jumps at the chance to be in the stroller, and I'm enjoying the evening walk/jog!!

Backpack

2007-02-05T21:18:00.000-08:00

Starting back on the road to the outdoors! I bought a backpack, and Emma loves riding in it. Sara came from Utah for a visit, and we trekked all over the market downtown on Saturday. On Sunday Alan and I did a 'mini-hike' around Foster Island. Both times Emma was happy as a clam. So very cool... Next in my sights- a bike trailer :-)

Emma is starting to show an interest in dolls, which is fun to see. Here she is, in her rocking chair, 'reading' Goodnight Moon to Dolly. Mama knows the book by heart, who'dve thunk.

Emma speaks several hundred words, and understands most of what I say, if I limit my vocabulary a bit, just amazing... I've discovered take-out Thai.

Three months ago today

2007-01-30T23:45:00.000-08:00

Three months today, since Emma was placed in my arms. Hard to believe, it feels like we've been together for so much longer. I'm so proud of Emma- with so many changes, she has responded with resilience and intelligence and a willingness to again laugh and love and trust. I know this little girl was also loved by her foster parents, by how she in turn has loved... I am certain they are missing her hugely. Tonight Emma and I went to a neighborhood Chinese restaurant and both devoured a huge plate of bok choy, tofu, and mushrooms.

Photos are miscellaneous from the past few days- love the sleepy bedhead shot, taken just after waking up this morning. Michelle (still Ayi to Emma, or 'Auntie' in Mandarin) started what I hope will be a tradition of getting Emma into some crazy sporting venture, and got her on a scooter- missing is the image of them riding together at a rather good clip, Emma holding on tight.. and after, always asking for yet one more ride.

I also added a few photos to the "gotcha day" entry in October- they were from the backup camera, and I only recently discovered them... they catch the feelings of that day well I think.

A few photos

2007-01-23T20:35:00.000-08:00

Not too much to report- life is just moving along, and all is well. I've returned to work, half-time, and am really happy with Emma's child care- Jennifer, who rents my mother-in-law, sits two afternoons a week, and Kendall, who is studying to be an elementary school teacher, sits the other two afternoons a week. They are both wonderful with Emma, and Emma gets lots of attention, in an environment where she feels secure.

We started swim lessons at a nearby pool, Emma just loves being in the water, and cheers all the other kids kicking and blowing bubbles too. Emma is starting to play dress-up, and loves both her costumes, and digging into my scarves. Catch the cute hat with the funky fringe.. knit by Emma's cousin Emily.

Christmas at the beach

2007-01-07T14:09:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year everyone! We had a wonderful holiday week in Florida with my family- Emma completely loved being at the center of attention for the week. We had two adjacent houses right on the beach, and great weather (warm, sunny and even a few storms). Emma loved the water, playing in the sand, and especially playing with her cousins Canyon, Nathan and Allan. Canyon did what I could not- in 30sec, he had Emma brushing her teeth with him. Allan was Emma’s armchair, she’d just settle into his lap. And Nathan and Emma played forts. So much fun to see the young crew together (and we’re eagerly anticipating Heather and Robert’s addition in April!)

Now home, Emma asks to look at the pictures and movie clips on the computer at least once a day- especially the one of her beloved Uncle Rick making googly-faces at her. And we now have the refrigerator covered with pics too.

One of the more touching moments of the trip came as we got home- After the last air leg, I told Emma that we were done with airplanes, and that we were going to see Alan and go home. She was happy to see Alan… but when we opened the front door, only then did she understand she was really back home- she broke out into a huge grin. With all the changes in her life, she may have thought she was moving someplace different yet again. At 1am Florida time, we had an hour-long celebration, with Emma loving all her old toys, riding her scooter, playing her music (and insisting we all dance), etc.

Emma changes every week- she’s talking more and more, and more physically active- I don’t carry her very often these days. She is just a total joy, and a happy little girl.

Christmas tree and a pretty pink sweater

2006-12-08T21:05:00.000-08:00

Our Christmas tree is up, and Emma loves it- one of her favorite places in the house is at its base, on a little sheepskin rug.. So cute to hear her pronounciation of ‘Christmas tree’.. and ‘snowman’.. or hide something and ask ‘where did it go?’ Emma’s vocabulary is steadily expanding; she moved beyond the paroting stage about two weeks ago, and now communicates using English. We were driving past the Seattle Center yesterday, and uncued, she pointed and said “space needle”. I had told her that only once, the day before. She confuses ‘outside’ and ‘raining’though- who can blame her, given the November we had?? She still loves to hear someone talk in Chinese to her.

Mom knit Emma the most adorable pink puff-ball sweater- inspired, I took a bunch of pics and attached. This girl has a way-better wardrobe than I do (thanks to a number of you!) Check out the spotted doggie scarf that Pam brought too..

Life is pretty dang fun these days- Every morning we go somewhere- the Children’s Museum, Zoo, Science Center, a park, etc. If we don’t get going fast enough, Emma pulls me to the door… I try to get her with a bunch of kids every day, she thrives on it. Winterfest is going on at the Seattle Center, so we often eat lunch (Thai for both of us), listening to live music. Emma loves being outside, and sometimes just wants to push her stroller out on the back deck. When feeling secure, she is a real extrovert, working hard to pull others in, spontaneously blowing kisses, and making friends. Ok, I’m running on again…

Snow and visitors

2006-12-07T21:29:00.000-08:00

It's been ages since I’ve posted- technology difficulties... I’ll split the update into two posts.. it seems like so much has happened.

On Thanksgiving morning, Alan and I took Emma up to the pass to play in the snow. Emma was reluctant to get out of the car, and I carried her for quite a time… Long story short, she learned to loved it. Then she howled when it was time to get _back_ into the car, so we stayed out longer, and I got her sliding a bit... we have a snow girl for sure. Thanksgiving dinner was at Michelle’s, wonderful food, and Owen and Emma kept everyone entertained with their antics.

The Lathrops came for a visit- it was so great to see everyone, hear about all their latest activities, and Emma thoroughly enjoyed herself.

We had our first bad experience, an (aborted) blood draw for routine tests... For more than a week afterwards, Emma was very anxious around strangers, and reluctant to go out (the latter quite unlike her). During this time, two things happened- 1) Aunt Pam came for a visit, and 2) we had record-breaking cold, and it snowed in Seattle. So we nested for a week- Emma took immediately to Pam, the first time I’ve seen my girl be really comfortable with someone else… it likely was reassuring that we look/sound so much alike.

Any more ideas on how to get a toddler to let their teeth be brushed? I've tried everything so far, still no success..

Smiles and more smiles

2006-11-20T22:20:00.000-08:00

Some of you have said they are glad to finally see some smiles from Emma- she laughs a lot! Except when the camera is out. So I was determined to get a few good ones today- we went to the Children's Museum, and then met Dmitry for lunch, then back to the museum again. Dmitry took a very nice one of us.. except for the typical look on Emma's face due to the camera...

A few folks have asked how I'm doing with the change in lifestyle- I'm completely happy, as close to "living in the moment" as I'll likely ever be- no worries, just planning out a day ahead, and enjoying every minute. Not working is such a nice change... I'm really enjoying the break. I don't know if it has come out in this blog, but I have completely fallen in love this little girl, such a sweet, smart, funny, adventurous soul; I am sure I received the most perfect girl, for me, in all of China. And Emma has fallen in love with me too..

Lastly... the sleep saga update: For her nap, the next day, as I was carrying her down the hall to my bed, I said- it's time to go to bed.. she immediately started snoring (have I mentioned how much English she already understands/parrots?) Before her head even hit the bed, she was laughing and wriggling off... So I put her in her crib (first time using it). She didn't object, and talked for awhile to her menagerie of much-loved stuffed animals, before dropping off. She slept in her own bed in foster care, so this isn't new for her. So, we are using her crib, at least for now. Co-sleeping was about bonding, and the bond is pretty tight at this point.

She's starting to behave like a 2yo! Yeah!!

2006-11-17T21:59:00.000-08:00

Last night, I was so proud of Emma- she sleeps with me, and I've always stayed with her til she's fallen asleep. She couldn't fall asleep, but lay contentedly on her side, talking to her (new favorite) large teddy bear. Mixed in with some fake snoring (I kid you not). So eventually I quietly got up and left the room.. she talked to herself for awhile and then fell asleep. A major achievement in her sense of security. AND she slept thru the night, first time here :-)

Tonight she again couldn't settle after the usual bedtime routine. So I again left the room after some time. This time she popped off the bed, and out the bedroom door, laughing (first time she's gotten off the bed by herself). I picked her up dispassionately, put her back in bed, with the words- it's time to go to bed, Mama loves you. Rinse and repeat, 58 times over the course of 1.5 hours (who needs a weight set, and yes, this engineer kept a log book). She never got the least bit upset, clearly just testing, trying new delay tactics, singing, laughing, etc. And then fell asleep. So, it feels like she is a reasonably adjusted 2yo, after only a few weeks.. I never thought she'd be so far along, so soon. (I know, I'm curious about what tomorrow night brings too)

Pics are from this morning's outing- we met up with bubbleman at Greenlake (www.bubbleman.com) and Emma enjoyed the show.

More settling in, and my girl's personality

2006-11-15T21:39:00.000-08:00

We're settling in- jet lag for both of us. And Emma wakes up needing to be carried around the house, to reassure her again of her surroundings. We've had an extra meal, most nights, in the wee hours of the morning. But all this will pass soon...

In the few days since we've been home we've been to REI, the zoo (twice), a playground, Trader Joe’s, and of course Starbucks- Emma loves to pick someone out and engage them. Also we've had lots of visitors, which Emma loves.

Some neat things about my girl-

She likes pretty dang spicy food- The Hubei girls are known as the "spicy girls" for their local food tastes. When I dished myself out some curry she let me know she wanted some too (as she wants to try most anything I eat, at least once). I gave her a tiny piece of the curry tuna (a solid 2-3 stars on the Seattle scale).. she focused a bit and made these cute little sucking sounds, to cool her mouth, not reaching for the rice... and then insisted on having more.

She loves being out in the elements- the weather here is awful right now, cold and rainy. While at the zoo it started to rain, as we were heading out. Emma insisted on no hat, loved the cold breeze, and cried when we got to the car and she needed to get in her carseat.

She loves music, and usually wants some Chinese kids music I bought to be playing. She loves me to pick her up and dance with her. She spontaneously starts singing “Mama Ai Ni”, a song I made up in China, and sing often to her. Now I’ve added the English verse “Mama loves you”.

She loves going out. Putting on a heavier coat, she started fussing… when I said “Watchi”, ie “going out”, she immediately stopped.

She's starting to try some fake fussing, to test me. Most times we catch each other out of the corner of our eyes.. and both start laughing instead.

Pics are misc from the past few days. If you click on them you get a larger image.

Amy, flight home, and settling in

2006-11-10T20:53:00.000-08:00

Backtracking a bit... on our last day in Guangzhou, we met with my cousin Amy, her husband Paul, and their new daughter Alice. Although we didn't know it until a few months ago, Amy and I coincidently turned our in paperwork to China at the same time. We played at the White Swan toyroom, and then went to a buffet. Alice is a total cutie pie, with super-fine hair that goes straight up. Emma picked this afternoon to start behaving like a typical toddler, not wanting to sit at the table, preferring to explore, so not as relaxed as expected... but so wonderful all the same. Amy's mom had knitted both girls gorgeous sweaters, which fit perfectly- you can see them in the picture.

The flight home- first to Tokyo, then immediately back on another plane to Seattle- Emma did great- She even slept for about 4-5 hours on the second leg. The girl loves remote controls.. The Schantz/Madeleine family had wrapped little presents for Emma, 1 per hour, for the trip home- we went thru about 2/3 of them, just a great idea.

So wonderful to finally be home... Alan and Casandra met us at the airport, and had decorated the living room with a banner and streamers. Emma immediately latched onto the doll stroller, and made the loop round the house about 30 times. We all went for a walk with Emma. Emma is totally happy, not upset at all with this latest change in environment... so resilient.

Lots of visitors on Friday- Margaret/John and family, Jennifer. Alan brought Keith and Casandra over and we had a real sit-down dinner, with Emma presiding at the head of the table. Life is very very good these days.

I'll continue to post pictures, from time to time- thanks all for all your support and love, it has meant the world to me...

Farewell dinner and stairs

2006-11-07T17:02:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was another good day. We met Christie, an email friend, over a (too-quick) breakfast, just before she got her little girl Abbey. Then off to the consulate for paperwork. There was a great park across the street, so we walked around there. Emma will go up and down stairs forever… bodes well for my mountain girl.

We took a cab back- no seatbelts, crazy driving, both typical here… better not to look. Emma and I did a little shopping- she loves this as the shopkeepers talk with her. She fell asleep in her wrap, so she slept and I dozed, on a park bench next to the water, with Chinese elders visiting on other benches around us.

Our farewell dinner was last night- So amazing to look around and see so many folks we’ve gotten to know- so many challenges overcome, and we felt a real sense of accomplishment. Emma was too dang cute, walking around in her finery (don’t miss the shoes, in the water shot).

Today we’ll meet Amy, my cousin coincidently adopting at the same time- her new daughter Alice, and Emma, will meet for the first time on Chinese soil. Then to the consulate for more paperwork and taking an oath. We’re going to go to that lovely outside grill for dinner, and to celebrate. We have to be up early for our 8:30am flight home… Once we land at SeaTac Thursday morning, Emma becomes an American citizen. Guangzhou is a great place to vacation, but it’s time to get home and settle in.

Med Exam and New Shoes

2006-11-06T09:16:00.000-08:00

This morning we walked over to the medical exam- way too many kids in a small area, you can imagine the effect on the kids. They were very gentle and kind during the examination, but the waiting room scene was a bit much for her. I took breaks and got her outside, between the 3 stations we had to go thru.

On the way back, we stopped at a little store, bought drinks, and had our first sidewalk cafe break. Emma flirted with the man on the next bench. This girl is certainly not the introvert the paperwork claimed...

Later Michelle joined us for coffee (at "Seattle Espresso Coffee") and more shopping. We went into our favorite store to try out a stroller (they loan for free). Emma climbed right in, and together we looked at shoes. We've gotten to know an adorable girl, Vicky, that works there- she came over and started talking with Emma, still in the stroller. She laughed, and said Emma asked her to please take her hand off HER stroller. Then we started looking at shoes- Emma had clear preferences, and told Vicki she thought they looked very fine. We bought a pair of leather shoes, and slippers with lady-bug heads on the front. Emma insisted on wearing the slippers first, and off we went in the stroller. The cutest thing- she just wanted to go, and see.. sitting straight up at attention, not resting on the backrest. Every so often she would touch her feet to admire her new finery.

Every day is like Christmas for Emma, new toys and new experiences, and it is a bit hard for her to settle at night- tonight she was very insistent she wanted to go back out, and down the elevator, to see more. (The mandarin for "go out" sounds like Watchi.. not sure of the pinyin spelling... we hear this often.. she's brought me her shoes for more subtle request). She wanted to get in the stroller, and to settle her, I pushed her in a circle in the hallway.... every so often she'd touch her slippered toes and just giggle. Eventually she fell asleep with her cougar tucked in tight... the first time her gogo (doggie) didn't have honored position. Last night she slept thru the entire night, and this evening she got her first real bath (and learned to love it). Ok, I'm running on... we're just enjoying the heck out of this little dynamo right now.

Mama and Emma go shopping

2006-11-05T12:16:00.000-08:00

Breakfast was a kick- A huge elegant buffet, indows down one side, maybe 30% or more of the people there are adoption families- just full of families with new babies. Talk about a tolerant wait staff... mealtime is a bit messy for us, with Emma wanting

Emma and I got on our group's tour bus, for our first shopping extravaganza- 10 minutes away, a huge mall filled with gemstones, some baby clothes, also I hear it is a good place to get DVDs ($1 but counterfeit) and the all-important extra suitcase for the trip home. I got her a string of pearls for sometime later (don't spill the beans), and some cute clothes- everything very reasonable. Emma loved being out... til she konked out in the wrap, so she slept thru the clothing shopping. We caught a cab back with another family.

Just outside our hotel is shopping as well- lots of cute stuff. The picture of the 3 of us is from there. I'm wanting to see something cultural as well, will try to figure that out. Talked with Amy, and we'll get together in a few days. Attached are pictures outside our hotel window, and a few of Miss Emma. It is still hard to get a good one of her, as she freezes up when she sees a camera.

Tomorrow morning is the medical exam, then the rest of the day is free. We'll explore a bit more of the island here.

Benedryl and Guangzhou

2006-11-04T20:18:00.000-08:00

Last night I gave Emma Benedryl about 8pm, before bed.... and had a wild, inconsolable child on my hands til it finally wore off at 2am. No kidding. (this is why yesterday's email never got posted) We packed up in the early am, and left for the airport.

We are now in Guangzhou- Emma's ears really bothered her on the takeoff, but she was totally content for the rest of the flight and journey. She loves being out and about, greeting shopkeepers, flirting with others on the bus. The White Swan Hotel is absolutely wonderful, and the area (Shamian Island) has a European flair.. We're very glad to be here. This evening Michelle, Emma and I celebrated our arrival at the elegant hotel outdoor grill/buffet, next to the water, Emma totally enjoying all the food (except the greens)and the evironment- We spent a long time looking at the koi and the indoor waterfall, and she fell asleep very quickly. A most excellent day.

We've been negligent about pictures (I packed the camera away a little too well today), but will remedy this tomorrow.

On the fifth day

2006-11-04T20:16:00.000-08:00

What a difference 5 days make- if was a bit of a rugged beginning for a new mom- a grieving 2yo that wanted only to be constantly held in my arms and walked, double ear infections, each of us talking in a different language. Now, on Friday, we're ordering room service and eating off the same plate (she's my salmon girl), I'm talking a mix of Chinese and English, she's happily on the floor playing with toys in the room, I'm getting all her meds in, we're all giggling and singing together.

Today was more paperwork- I've written my name, address, birthdate, and similarly for Li Dong, on countless forms. (I have been calling her Li Dong while in China, to minimize changes). More orphanage officials, speech, etc... and now she has a Chinese passport.

Tomorrow we fly to Guangzhou, we're ready to leave here- the hotel is a bit grimy and not so friendly for families. Its one saving grace (and a significant one, as it turned out) is decent, and decently priced, room service. Wondering how I can get that at home....

Michelle went on a half-day journey today, to take pictures of Emma's finding place. Hopefully I can get her to write a bit about the trip.

Sorry, no pics today- we've been mostly indoors, and the flash still startles her. Picture her comfortably deep squatting, asian-style, as she plays with toys.. I need to get a good one of that and post.

First outing, and ear infection

2006-11-01T23:43:00.000-08:00

Hi folks-
As Alan relayed, Emma has an ear infection (actually two of them). Combined with grieving and all the other changes.. she's been a real trooper. We need to fly in another day and a half, so were so grateful to Joe Fowler, a physician and adopting dad, traveling with us- I had just started a general antibiotic I had brought with me (after a phone call with Emma's international med doc in Seattle), he came and examined her, confirmed the ear infections, and switch us to a more specific antibiotic- and left antibiotic for us. Such a blessing- both to know exactly the problem, and to be able to start fixing it.

I'm wondering if Emma is one of those that gets perky with Benedryl- either that, or the tylenol finally kicked in- she was running around the hotel room from 8 til 11, after a dose of Benedryl, perky and playing games. More glimpses of her personality- she just loves to giggle and sing.

I was so tired, forgot to finish the 'becoming a mom' train of thought from a prior post- The first morning after Gotcha, we needed to be in a meeting room here at 9am for paperwork with Chinese officials.. It was a pretty rough night for Emma, and in the rush to get out (doing everything, and I mean everything, with a baby held to my hip), we got down there. Only to realize I was barefoot.

Yesterday we got out for our first outing, to a local museum. Museum wasn't so interesting, but we created quite an attraction for the other chinese there, our guide had to shush them away. I attached a picture Michelle took. Terrie, thank you for the lovely sling- Emma hated the other one I brought, and snuggled into this one.. totally saved the day, I was getting really worried about my back holding out.

Tomorrow, more paperwork, and then likely a day to lay low with Emma. Michelle is going to take a 2 hr ride to Emma's finding place, maybe I can convince her to write a few words about the area around here.

Love the emails, even if I can't respond to all of them- I can't see the blogspot, or comments, from here.

Ear Ache

2006-11-01T21:09:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone. Lisa hasn't been able to post for awhile since Emma has been sick with an ear infection. One of the other adopting parents in the travel group is a doctor and was able to take a look at her. Emma has taken her medicine and should start feeling much better. Lisa is already feeling better! Thanks to many wonderful and caring people.

Chinese Adoption Day

2006-10-31T06:53:00.000-08:00

... and becoming a mom

Today I signed all the paperwork to adopt Emma, in Chinese eyes. This was done in a conference room in the hotel, with a number of Chinese orphanage/other officials there. They stamped Emma' footprint. Someone held her to do this (I was so surprised she went to her, as she only will be held by me, she obviously knew her). I was signing my signature, and the officials at the desk gasped- they said "did you hear what she said?- "Momma's writing." Wow... I guess this is it.

Emma's been grieving hard, last night, and much of today/tonight. She misses her foster parents. She's a little older than the other girls, and so more cognizant of her loss. She only will be held by me, and must be held while I walk- not sitting, not rocking. I've put on a lot of miles, and wishing I'd spent more time lifting weights! We've done a lot of room service. This is all very normal- the good news is that she makes good eye contact, and we are connecting.

We are seeing glimpses of the little girl she is- she can chatter away in Chinese, and has the greatest little giggle- Michelle is good at getting her to do this. She imitates me singing itsy bitsy spider. At the adoption ceremony, and a bit later, she ventured out of my arms, and was walking and playing with some of the kids. She even set down her little doggie, for the first time, for all of about 30 seconds.

That's all for now- I'm beat. We may try to venture out tomorrow, there's a half-day tour to a tourist destination- If we make it to the lobby (the elevator totally freaks her out), being out and about should be good for her.

Gotcha Day

2006-10-29T21:34:00.000-08:00

Emma couldn't be more perfect- She came out clutching the little dog I had sent. She had gotten carsick on the 2 hour trip to the hotel, so was a bit hot and tired, but did just fine- The trap-cup with Cheerios was a big hit. Hours later she has giggled over bubbles, eaten lots of Cheerios, had a bottle, and is sleeping as I speak. Amazing... her caretakers have obviously done a wonderful job with her. More, much more later.... but I wanted to share a few photos. Love to all,Lisa

Postscript- I found these pictures, on the 'backup' camera, much later. They are taken in the first minutes of holding Emma...

Wuhan

2006-10-29T07:10:00.000-08:00

Just a short post to say we've arrived in Wuhan. Wuhan is a big city, of around 7 million people. Pictures are from the bus ride from the airport to the hotel. Today we got settled in our room, did some adoption paperwork, and took a tour of the area around the hotel- we are in a very modern area, a 15min walk to a department store, groceries, shopping, etc. Tomorrow they are bringing the babies to the hotel at 10:30 am- life will never be the same!!

Beijing

2006-10-28T07:14:00.000-07:00

We've had a busy two days of touring in Beijing- Temple of Heaven, Tiananmen Square, a tour of a traditional Hutong house and the Great Wall. At one point we were riding rickshaws through the streets- and Michelle convinced the guide to swap places with her, so she took off solo on his bike!

My thoughts have been of Emma- she is likely at the orphanage, being transitioned out of foster care... I am very ready to go to Wuhan- tomorrow we'll fly there, and meet Emma the morning of the 30th. Our tour group today was the ~12 families going to Hubei (Wuhan), and the two young CHI agency coordinators, Christie and Wendy, that will accompany us for the rest of the trip. Everyone is really nice, and we are enjoying getting to know folks.

Hope this blogsite is working ok- I can't see the site here, for some reason, so kind of flying blind! My love to all- and special thoughts to Aunt Carolyn for a speedy recovery from surgery.

Family

2006-10-24T19:17:00.000-07:00

My family- here all together two years ago, in Florida- So much wonderful support... I can't wait for this year's reunion, with Emma with us!
My amazing friend Michelle- From the very start of all this, Michelle has enthusiastically said she would accompany me on this trip- With a jam-packed schedule, two young boys, and a husband... such a gift. And, on top of all this, she totally surprised my on Sunday evening with a wonderful baby shower. Such a warm show of support from my friends here...

My grandmother, Emma's namesake- If Emma grows up with anywhere near her grace and kindness I will be so very happy. I'm thinking about you Nana, on this trip!

And I need to post a picture of Alan, for those of you who have not met him- Alan has been so wonderful, in everything, and lately in helping me get ready to go meet Emma.

Emma and I are truly blessed to have so many wonderful people in our lives.

Itinerary

2006-10-24T19:14:00.000-07:00

Wed, Oct 25 We fly to Beijing, arrive the evening of the 26th (due to date change) Stay at the Swissotel
Fri, Oct 27 Sightseeing: somewhere, can’t remember where.
Sat, Oct 28 Sightseeing: TianAnMen Square & Forbidden City, the Great Wall (Juyongguan) Orientation
Sun, Oct 29 Flight to Wuhan, CZ3118(10:35a-12:40p) Stay at the White Rose Hotel
Mon, Oct 30 ~*~* MEET EMMA!!! ~*~*
Tues, Oct 31 Do adoption procedure (registration & notary) in the morning
Wed, Nov 1 Sightseeing: Yellow Crane Tower
Thurs, Nov 2 Sightseeing: Hubei Provincial Museum
Fri, Nov 3 Get all the paper back, and prepare forms for ACS
Sat, Nov 4 Fly to GZ in the afternoon MU2473(13:00-14:20) Stay at the White Swan Hotel
Sun, Nov 5 Free day
Mon, Nov 6 Medical examination for child
Tues, Nov 7 ACS appointment; Farewell dinner
Wed, Nov 8 Go to ACS to take oath, and get visa in the afternoon
Thurs, Nov 9 Fly from Guangzhou early in the am. Arrive Seattle 7am on Thursday, Nov 9th (Same day, as we cross back over the date line)

Emma's room

2006-10-24T19:03:00.000-07:00

Emma's room, as of a few weeks ago- it is getting filled in now- We'll be looking for some Chinese butterfly kites to fill up the walls!

Emma's referral photos!

2006-10-18T22:35:00.000-07:00

Emma's referral photos- Born Han Li Dong, on October 31, 2004. At 20 months she was 20lb and 73cm tall- a peanut! She's active, somewhat introverted, quick-witted, a little impatient.. sound like anyone you know? I think she's absolutely gorgeous, and can't wait to put a smile on her adorable face!