Like, I mentioned, we’re “living” on Shamian Island, which is still part of Guangzhou, but of course, has water surrounding it. So, everything we need is within walking distance. This morning, Evian and I were out for a walk to one of the gift shops near our hotel and a man overheard me asking the clerk a question. He stopped me and asked me where I’m from. He was obviously an American adoptive parent too. Turns out, he is from St. Michael, MN just on the opposite side of the Twin Cities from Woodbury where we live. Small world!
To encourage you to buy from their shop, these little stores offer all kinds of services to adoptive families, like half off laundry service or free stroller rental. We got a stroller to use for Evian today. Add that to her list of firsts – her first stroller ride! We’re glad to carry our little sweetie, but in this heat and high humidity, sitting in the baby carrier can get pretty sweaty. Evian seemed a little unsure in the stroller so far.
Our walk this afternoon took us to the Physical Examination Office where each baby was looked at by an ENT and Pediatrician as a requirement for their visa application. Evian checked out OK at every station. We thank the Lord over and over for her health. There are several babies here right now with health concerns, so far none major, but still difficult. Please pray for Evian’s little girlfriends –Molly, Olivia, Kyleah, Allison, and Naomi, who have colds, fevers, rashes, and infections.
Before the pediatrician had a chance to look over Evian’s records, we asked if he could tell physically how old she is. He didn’t do a comprehensive evaluation, but just noticing her muscle development and responsiveness, he estimated 5 months. She will actually be 8 months next week. Russ and I are no experts, but having spent these 3 days with her, we’ve had to re-think what we think we know an 8 month old needs. We’re really needing wisdom from the Lord and unity with each other as we care for Evian and try to provide for her basic needs, as well as love and bond with her tenderly.
4 comments:
Love the eye chart! What a fun picture that is! I am so thankful for Evian's good health and it is going to be so much fun to watch her learn and grow as she catches up to her birth age. You two are such good parents and Elianna and Ember are such loving girls that I'm sure before you know it Evian will seem like any other little girl. Savor every moment together! Erica
Russ and Di,
I just get caught up on your trip! Evian is adorable! So glad that she is healthy. Can't wait to meet her sometime! Blessings to you and your family,
Kiri and the J's
I'm with you on the "How do you parent an 8 month old who has lived in an orphanage all her life?" It's alot different than being able to start with a baby and work up to an 8 month old. I'm sure I'll be talking to you guys, my sister, and reading "What to expect the first year". Of course praying will be the biggest part too. Glad she is healthy.
I am so excited to see your pictures and video. It's strange to be on your time zone as you update. Hang in there with all the paper work. I can't imagine as you go through the land of red ink stamps : )
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