Friday, November 07, 2008

A breakthrough day!

Listening to Ariel's music (those aren't headphones; they are ear muffs that Ariel found at Wal-Mart and had to have them.  Kavanna liked them, too!
Kavanna's thoughtful and still uncertain expression.
Sisters!
Happy in People's Park
Happy sisters!!
When I wrote that Kavanna was a "velcro baby" I wasn't kidding.  For three days she's had to be right next to me, practically fused to me at all times.  She'd scream when David and Ariel tried to hold her.  The mere idea of putting her in a highchair was ludicrous.  No way!  I couldn't put her down for a moment.  I've been wearing her in a sling all day and she's been sleeping on me all night.  
Yesterday she began to laugh.  Today the families had a pizza party (yes, there is Pizza Hut in Nanning, China - I've never had it at home but it sure is yummy in China) and she crawled to the other kids, which was a miracle.  And then... she got up and took a few unsteady steps!!   
She even reached for Daddy and for Ariel.  Her personality is really starting to shine through.  She's a contemplative, thoughtful, goofy and happy baby!!   We haven't been able to capture her giddy cuteness on camera, yet, but we'll keep trying.

17 comments:

DBW said...

Congratulations! I know this must be such a relief for you. Happy, happy, happy days. Lets just hope she doesn't mind the flight to Guangzhou (or sleeps through it!) At least its a short flight.

Christi and Abbey said...

Whoohoo! That's what we want to hear! Wonderful news. Have you mastered the art of going to the bathroom with her velcro'd on you? I can so relate and remember, and we still have it to some degree. She knows you are a good deal and she is not going to let you go. So glad to hear that she is coming out of her shell and interacting with David, Ariel, and the other kids.

DBW said...

You know, now that I think about it, at first I thought Kavanna was very cute. Now I think that face has a regal beauty about it.

Anonymous said...

good morning......it's me again
you can really see her starting to relax...she's so darn cute. when are you coming home?

Anonymous said...

I read A LOT of China adoption blogs and Kavanna is the prettiest of all the babies I've seen. I'm sure she is loving, sweet and funny, and those things matter most...but darn, she is PRETTY!

"M" said...

Glad things are moving a long..... My daughter was a total velcro baby until the last 2 days of the trip. She is still a bit clingy, but makes great stride every week she has been home. The velcro thing was pretty taking (for me) but at the end of the day made for a much better attachment. You don't seem to be stuggling with this, but just in case you are, know this is a great thing in the end. I know I need to keep hearing that when I was feelng tired and wanting a little personal space.

kitchu said...

What a wonderful day- so glad to hear she is moving along and bonding with her sister- these photos are just precious!! They both are beautiful!!

Susan said...

Nina~ I've been following your blog each day. I have to say I am so tickled that you had to go all the way to china to get your first look at a Walmart and your first Pizza Hut pizza! ;-)

I'm glad to hear that things have improved a bit and I'm sure it will just get better and better each day.

Kavanna is just gorgeous and Ariel seems to be adjusting nicely also. Thanks for continuing to post those pix, they're helping me hang on.

susan aka ladeeesquire

chad-roscoe said...

What beautiful pictures of beautiful girls!
Isn't life wonderful and full or magic?
We are so happy for you!
xx~
D&D

Dori's Mommy (Diana) said...

Wonderful!!! Happy family!

Don and Be said...

The day Joanna Mei held out her arms to me, 3.5 weeks into our adoption is forever etched in my mind. I'll never forget it. Delighted to hear of your steps in the bonding process.
Don

J said...

Nina,
I'm so glad that Kavanna is making progress. I'm sure it has been tough on you. We just received our referral for a little one from the same SWI. We are with the same agency as well. I look forward to hearing more about your adventures and impressions of Nanning.

Joanne
http://patiencelesson.blogspot.com/

Rosie said...

Its just wonderful.

Valerie said...

Great news! It sounds like she is coming along great! I had to laugh at the high five story. Same experience here - it was quite a break through moment for us when we taught Milana to high five. Who knew such a corny American fad would be so important?

I suspect the velcro thing will likely last a while after coming home too. That's a great thing though. It shows how much she trusts you already.

When are you coming home?
xoxValerie
p.s. Have I mentioned how lovely she is?
p.p.s. News from home - Andy was in the hospital for 2 days. He thought that he was having a heart attack. He's ok now, but still pretty shaken up.

Stephe said...

I just adore these photos on this post. Sounds like you are all having an amazing time and Kavanna is just the CUTEST!!!!

Alyson and Ford said...

Wonderful, Wow and more wow's!! It is amazing the progress they make each day!

You all seem very happy!!
(sleep is good too). It does get better, somehow after sleep deprivation, there is peace and joy and happiness. Love to you all!

Alyson

Anonymous said...

NINA, I love the pictures of Ariel and Kavanna, especially the one with the headphone duel ear muffs. The last one is particularly cool. Also, you crack me up, I told the Mr. about Pizza Hut, and you know it's funny we haven't been to one either. But, I love pizza so it will be so much fun to try it there. Anyway, I'm happy to hear you guys are doing so well, and can't wait to hear more. love,