We had Mia's medical exam today. The clinic was very crowded and loud, but we made it through with no problems. We finally got an accurate height and weight on Mia - 114 cm and 19.5kg. They couldn't get her blood pressure to register, so they said it was probably low, but they would mark it as normal. hmm - great exam. Oh well, the goal is to get her home. She did not have to get any immunizations, but did cry with her tb test. She put her head on my shoulder and let me comfort her as she cried, so that was good.
One of the other families from agency just joined us today, and we found out they are from Springfield, IL - about 1hr 15 min from our town. They have friends traveling with them, who we have some connections with. Their friend is a pediatrician and he used to be great friends with our next door neighbor when we lived in Springfield. We remember him coming over to her house frequently in his little red convertible. Small world.
Each day Mia continues to warm up to us a little more. She is starting to say a few words and phrases to us - some in Chinese and some in English. She sometimes calls me mama and sometimes mommy. We did get her to say Corinne's name today. And she said hi to Hollie on skype this morning. I also got her to name a few animals in a picture book today, and she knew them all in English.
In general, she is very social and outgoing. Earlier today, she was trying to sneak up on Kevin in the lobby. She was putting her finger to her mouth for me to be quiet and then she was sneaking along the wall like a little spy. It was pretty funny. And tonight she and Corinne had a big tickle fest and we heard full out belly laughs. So cute!
We have also noticed that Mia wants to be "Americanized". She wants to use a fork and knife - not chopsticks. And she hasn't wanted any rice since we got her. Her bedtime routine does include a noodle bowl, but for the most part, she is eating more Americanized than Chinese food.
As for bedtime, we made a big break through tonight. Before tonight, she has been mad at us every night at bedtime. We are thinking, she just doesn't want to stop playing, but she gives us the cold shoulder and major pouting. Last night she even covered her ears for bedtime prayers and song - (again, probably just my singing!) But tonight, she smiled when Kevin and I sang to her and she handed me each of her 3 stuffed animals, one at a time for me to hug. She didn't want me to hug her, but a step in the right direction. It's really funny, because all day she will hold our hands, let us carry her, give her hugs, tickle her, etc. But at bedtime, not so much. We are taking it all in stride, as we know she is being so brave with all the changes this week.
Tomorrow we will go to the Safari Park and then we will come back and pack Kevin to leave Monday morning. :( We will miss him being here with us, but the little ones back home are anxious for daddy to come home. The girls and I will stay until Friday.
3 comments:
Semlows,
So good to see that you are doing well. Just remember that the small progress you are seeing is progress.
When we look at the pictures we see that Mia is joyful. She will be a perfect addition to your joyful family.
We will be praying for you as Kevin leaves. Know that God has you firmly in the palm of His hand.
Hollie and the little ones are doing well. We saw her the other day leading them with their bikes to ride around the parking lot at Grove. They looked like little ducks in a row. Hollie is awesome!
We were struck anew by the title of your blog--Beyond Blessed. While there are days when this feels more like an aspiration than a reality, know that God is doing a work in the Semlow family. We also pray that God will give you glimpses of what He will do in your children and the glory that will be brought to Him through their lives!
We love you,
The Millers
Such great news! I love all the great pics and places you are able to document with for Mia. She will be very glad you have those one of these days. Funny - Selam would prefer "americanized" items too. It's hard to remember the past at times I think and easier to just take on the new... although we have days where she would refuse all new too :) So excited for you all! I know I say that in every comment but I truly am. Hugs from the Gillmans. Safe travels Kevin.
I don't want to ask for the family's last name publicly, but can you tell me perhaps the name and/or age of the child they are adopting? I'm trying to figure out if I know who it might be since I know several local Springfield families adopting.
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