Blonde hair is ok after all

Well, if Holly was having issues with me being a blonde, she is over it. Last night at the competition I felt her hand touching my hair for the first time. After a few minutes she looked at me to see if I was ok with it. Of course I was, so, she started doing it again, only this time she was reaching way up in it and pulling her fingers through. After a bit she was wrapping it around her fingers, and then putting it in pony tails.

The last couple of days have been hard for her. She doesn't like at all when Myleigh goes to school. She gets so upset. Hopefully she'll get used to that soon.

Her English aquisition is growing steadily. Last night she dropped something in the bleachers, and when she looked down and found it she said "Der it is" She parrots much of what Myleigh says, and that seems to be helping. She still likes to watch her Chinese DVD's and I'm hoping that's soothing to her.

Blending the old with the new

Bringing a child from China into a decidedly American family has it's growing pains. Like communication. We do alot by sign language, not literal sign language but a variation on pointing, and trial and error. Holly is very patient with our inability to speak Chinese, and with our occasional attempts at it which are pretty obviously slaughtering the language, based on the looks she often gives us. She has even taken to trying to correct our pronounciation, but, I think she knows we're basically a hopeless case and she tolerates us. She is picking up at least an understanding of what we are saying. If I ask her if she wants more of something, or if she wants a bite of something, she is able to get what I'm saying.

We rely on some words we do know, like Oleo for telling her she needs to go potty before we head out the door or before bed. She knows exactly what we expect, and that is the only time she will go to the bathroom on command. We play with her when she says Beeyow, which is telling us she doesn't want something, by repeating it back playfully, and she thinks that's pretty funny, since she knows we do understand that word.

I took her shopping for a few age appropriate toys at ToysRUS, since Myleigh no longer has much in the way of preschool toys. This girl really knows what she wants and doesn't want. She has taken a liking to Ni Hao Kai Lan toys, and is not too interested in Sesame Street or Barney. She likes the Teletubbies, but, not Dora. She doesn't like dolls as a rule, but, we found one by FAO Schwartz that is an Asian baby doll, and she immediately liked that one. All I have to do is show her something and she will let me know if she approves or not. If she doesn't like it, she makes a scrunched up face and says BeeYow. If she likes it, she nods her approval and puts the item in the cart.

She ended up with a kitchen set and table and chairs to share with her sister, and ultimately to put in the playhouse when the weather improves. Two folding strollers for both girls to push their dolls in. Some puzzles and a story reader with books that the reader reads out loud for her. And her favorite, a little toy microwave oven with a working turntable with some food and dishes sets for the kitchen set. When we got home, and it was all set up, she sat and played so happily and so quietly, that I was able to get some housework done without worrying that she was bored. I peeked at her at one point, and saw her pouring water from the little tea pot into a tea cup. Well, I hadnt given her any water, but, I had given her water in her sippy cup. I kept watching her, and what she was doing was sucking up water from the sippy cup straw, and then spitting it into her tea pot. So funny, but, I knew Myleigh wouldn't want to drink tea with her, so, I washed out the cups and tea pot, and put some water in the tea pot for her to use.

When Myleigh got home they played together the rest of the day without interruption, until the two grown up sisters showed up. Before I knew it, all four of my girls were playing house, pouring tea and cooking food, and setting up the table. Very cute.

When it was bedtime, I had two rambunctous girls to wrangle into bed. I thought that I had them settled down enough that they would go right to sleep, but, in a few minutes Myleigh comes down stairs to tell me Holly had pulled her blankets off her bed. Holly was laughing when I came into the room, and while I had to be firm with her and get her back into bed, it was hard not to laugh with her.

The first real hug

It finally happened. Holly finally reached out and hugged me, really hugged me. Not by accident, and not because I hugged her first. It wasn't a fake kind of well if I have to hug.

We were at the UVU Ballroom Dancesport competition, and she chose to sit next to me. She leaned over into me, and then looked up and me with a new kind of admiration. Myleigh came over and gave me a hug, and then walked away. Without any warning Holly reached up, smiled a big smile, and hugged me, and for a long time. I couldn't believe she did it, and I didn't want to make too big of a deal out of it. I wanted it to feel just as natural of a reaction to her as it did when Myleigh hugged me. I think it worked, because she has been so different since then with me. Not the way I know it will be in time, but, it's pretty clear she is starting to see me not only as the Mama she has, but, the Mama she wants to have.

She had so much fun today at the comp. I thought she would be bored literally to tears, but, with a few trips to the hallway for a run and play session, and with the team members taking off with both her and Myleigh to play, visit with the rest of the team, and dance during the open dance times, she and Myleigh lasted the whole day.

One week home.

We've been home a week today, and things are dramatically different in just that seven days.

From Holly completely rejecting me, and spending the better part of the day crying, tantruming, or whining and refusing anything I offered her, clinging to her Baba and melting down if she lost contact with him, to today. Baba had to go back to work.

After spending the night in her own bed, without waking or having any sleep problems, she woke up fairly happily, playing with Myleigh. I gave them both some cereal in a cup and she took it and ate it all. Then they played with their DS's in their room until it was time to get dressed. They are both wearing the same shirt and have their hair in pigtails. She has greeted everyone as they got up this morning, and gave big brother James a huge hug. Baba has gone about his morning as usual, without his little shadow. She hardly seems to pay attention to what he is doing or where he is anymore. Then it was time for Baba to leave, and she waved bye bye and out the door he went. As simple as that. The big event he was most concerned about and it was a non event.

Now she is doing something she has never done before, she went upstairs to play in her room, by herself! Finally, she knows she can wander around her own house. I think she really, really knows she is home and she belongs to us and us to her. She still isn't keen on the dogs, but, is getting used to them being close to her, as long as she is up on the furniture, and they are on the floor. That's a step to take some time later next week. For now, I'm glad she's settling in so well. I think the hardest part for her is when all the kids are gone to school and she is bored. Maybe now that she is more relaxed with me she'll be ok with spending time just the two of us next week.

Making new friends

Right now Holly Jun is upstairs with her sister Myleigh, and two new friends, Savannah and Mckayla, neither of which speak Chinese, at least not much that I know of, but, they have a Chinese grandmother, so, perhaps there is some spoken in their family that they have picked up. Either way, Holly is chattering away up there like I haven't heard yet. She was so excited when they got here, as they are the first kid visitors we have had. I wasn't sure how she would interact with them, but, she's acting like she believes they will understand her, and she is undaunted in her attempts to be a part of the group. I just hope she doesn't become too frustrated.

Last night I took her to parent teacher night at Mindy's high school where she is on a ballroom dance team. The whole team has taken to Myleigh over the past two years. They knew we were bringing home Holly, and a bunch of them came over to the table where I was talking to the coach. She loves two of the boys, who both have dark hair, and chattered at them and showed off her sassy side. She is loving using her few English words, especially bye bye and thank you, to the delight of her audience.

Today Holly and I had a go round over rules. I have a firm rule about how close the children can get to the gas fireplace in our dining room, and she wanted to disobey as her brother and sister were watching, and she was determined that I was not going to tell her what to do. So, in time out she went, and after the requisite 5 minutes, I asked her if she wanted to come out, and reached for her, but, she shook her head no and stood her ground. This went on for about an hour, until she finally relented, and sat on my lap in the rocker while I talked to her and told her I love her. After a bit she wanted water, and was hungry, so I fed her grapes, which she readily accepted, which is a big deal in our relationship.

Then, I did something she didn't expect. I asked her if she wanted to play outside with Baba. She was happy and cooperated with me, and afterward she has been playing with me, bringing me things, calling me mama, and even teaching me Chinese words for things. Little battles equal big victories.

swinging in the backyard

Success

We have success!!

After waiting her out, and after both Myleigh and Tim were out the door this morning, I gave Holly her cheerios and some sliced banana in a bowl, and some milk in a sippy cup, popped her up on the loveseat in the dining room, with Mickey Mouse on the TV. She looked interested at me, and started chowing down. Ahh. Hopefully, the rest of the day will show a little baby step here and there.

Our fifth day home

We've been home five days now. Some things are going along smoothly, and others are still a struggle. Nothing more than I expected, but, oh it will be nice when we're all back to normal, or as close as we're liable to get.

Holly has attached strongly to all her siblings, and of course to Baba, but, still keeps me at arms length. I could speculate why, but, Ive seen enough signs that she wants to reach out to me, that I know in time she'll be fine.

Myleigh is thrilled that she has the sister she always wanted, and they are pretty much inseperable most of the time. Today Myleigh goes back to school for the first time since we brought Holly home, and that will be an interesting adjustment for Holly, dealing with being home all day without her sister to play with.

Holly is not what I would call a morning person, by a long shot. She wakes up grouchy, whiney, and refuses to eat breakfast. She just sits in front of her bowl either fussing or watching TV. I have decided to take the approach that if she eats, great, if not, she'll be hungry come the next meal. I have her sit there, for as long as I think it may take for her to decide to eat, and then, I take the food and let her get down from the table. It started to work yesterday, but, today we are back at it already this morning, so, we'll see what today brings. She uses food as a control issue, only taking it from someone other than me, so, I have to insist that no one else offer her food. Yesterday, without thinking, Tim took the lunch I put in front of her that she refused to eat, and when I went out the door to the store, he reheated it and gave it back to her. She ate it.

She'll eat dinner if all of us are sitting together at the table, in my view it's because she is sharing it with everyone else, and my involvement is minimal. So, through the day she does eat, just not what I hope to see over the next few days. I'm trying not to turn this into a power struggle, but, the more she pushes me away, the harder it will be when Tim goes back to work in a couple of days. So, we press on.

When I took her to Wendys she ate her entire kids meal. Maybe it's about junk food. Still a work in progress, but, we don't do junk food that often, and she'll have to get used to eating healthy, even if it isn't loaded with sugar and grease.

Holly slept all night last night in her bedroom with Myleigh. Tim had been spending the night on an air mattress on their floor, but, he showed her where his bed is and that he will be sleeping there. She accepted it, went to bed, slept all night, with us keeping an ear out with a baby monitor. So, that's progress.

Some pictures from home

At the Guangzhou zoo

Holly loves Pandas. She gets so excited and says shomo panda, shomo is panda in Chinese.

The red couch photo

I have a picture of Myleigh on this same red couch, at the White Swan hotel on Shamain Island. Had to get one of Holly. Maybe someday when we bring them back for a heritage visit we can get both girls, all grown up, on that sofa together.

At the White Swan

Jordon's is still there, barely hanging on

Watching Chinese teletubbies

A sign advertising special rice cakes for The Chinese New Year

Im pretty sure they mean carp shaped.

Walking around Shamain Island park

Lunch at Lucy's

the checkup

On our way to the Medical checkup

getting ready to leave Wuhan

These were taken at the airport. Holly had been so excited to see the airplanes, Fayjee in Chinese.

A few pictures from the second day

Pizza Hut in China

I thought it would be interesting for everyone to see what a pizza hut special looks like in China. Those things on the pizza are battered dipped deep fried shrimp, the cake is very gelatinous, kind of like a foamy jello pie, the green stuff is soup, I think a spinach type, and the cream stuff is mushroom soup. It was soooo good.

We're Home

We made it safely home and adjustments are coming along slow but steady.

After spending the morning on our last day in Guangzhou at the Chen family temple, we finished up packing and headed out for the airport with two other families who were also leaving that day, one of which was traveling on our flight, and the other family moving onto Beijing for CNY.

Our flight to LAX was smooth sailing. Holly woke once or twice, but, no real problems. She was at the beginning of a nasty cold, that I think combined with the changing pressure from the flight, and ended up with an ear ache. Flying Premium Economy was definitely worth the cost of the upgrade, so Tim's trip with Vicki through the subway paid off. Once we were in LAX we navigated the immigration lines fairly smoothly, and then sailed through customs. We picked up our luggage and made our way to the hotel for our long layover.

I have decided that the US version of a suite has nothing on a Chinese version, and a bit of a letdown. All it had really was more space, but, the suites in China are quite nice, even elegant. Still, it's a Sheraton, so the beds were dreamy. Tim and I had the first full on salad we had allowed ourselves for the past two weeks. We're both pretty adventurous, and if we hadn't had a new little one to care for and get through such a traumatic change, we could have risked any stomach issues that might have arisen from eating raw, washed foods, but, we felt it best to err on the side of caution, and still, we experienced some great new things.

We slept as long as we could, a few hours at best, but, it was much needed, and then went to LAX again, for what can only be described as the most ridiculous and frustrating experience the entire trip. Delta airlines. Need I say more? For anyone with any degree of experience with them, no, but, for those not in the habit of flying with them, let me warn you not to expect a large degree of competence or even customer service. I plan to write a long scathing letter to their corporate office, but, don't really expect any response.

Anyway, we flew home in time to see Katie before she left for the drumline competition she was going to, which was wonderful, and James was home, too, a nice bonus. Mindy and Myleigh were still gone at a ballroom practice.

Holly Jun had slept the entire drive home, so, she was cranky when we got to the house. We pulled up in front and showed her the house, and showed her the picture of our house she had in her photo album. She was less than excited. We took her in, and she was fussy, didn't want Tim to put her down for a second. When he did, she lost it, and just screamed and cried for about an hour. Things weren't much better the rest of the day. She ended up taking a long nap, as did Tim and I, and while that didn't help a ton, at least it was quiet for a while. She got to know the girls better last night, and thinks Mindy is hilarious. She was interested in Myleigh, but, kept her distance which made Myleigh so sad, poor thing. I explained that Holly needed more time, and to try to be patient, but, she's waited for a little sister for so long, it's just hard.

We all took some kind of meds to help sleep, Holly had some benadryl to help with the cold as well as sleep, and the night was pretty smooth, except for Tim who had to sleep on the floor next to her bed. This morning she was still feeling the ear ache, so, I used the analgesic ear drops, and some more meds for the cough and runny nose, and in an hour she was laughing and playing with the girls again. I took the two older girls to do some shopping for food and while we were gone, Tim had taken the little girls outside to play. It was wonderful to come home and find them on the swings together laughing and being sisters. Finally, things are starting to be more what they will be as Holly really settles into her new life. Right now they're playing, Holly following Myleigh all over and copying what she does. So cute.

our lovely guide vicki

Farewell to China

Today we will bid a very fond farewell to China and all our wonderful travel group and guides.  It's been a great trip, we've met wonderful people, seen some amazing sights, gone to the most interesting places, and are bringing home many many memories we'll treasure for a long time.  At least until we come back to bring the girls on a heritage tour.
We're so anxious to be with all our kids again.  We have missed James, Katie, Mindy and Myleigh terribly, and if only we were rich, we could have brought them with us. 
This morning we visited the Chen family temple, which was beautiful.  It makes me wish we had our own family temple, and more determined to create that zen garden that we have planned for our back yard.  i have gotten some great ideas here.
We're having lunch and then off we go to the airport.  Lily will be coming with us to help with check in, but, we're pretty savvy in navigating through China, so, we're not concerned, although we appreciate any help with translations, especially if there are any problems.
We did find out something about Holly's story that breaks our hearts.  Apparently, she was placed with a family from Spain when she was just 14 months old.  They actually had her with them, and for whatever reason, they brought her back the next day and said they didn't want her.  Luckily, she was far too young to really understand what happened, but, it's so heart breaking.  I am glad for us that they did, and for her, if they weren't the right family it's best that they found that out early, just so sad for a child to be put on approval of sorts.
We've had a number of people ask if there is a way for them to help out with the costs of the adoption, and we thought long and hard about it.  Finally, we have decided to set up a way through paypal where donations can be sent.  I'll be putting a link on our blog when we get back to the US.  We so deeply appreciate that there are those in our lives that want to help with what has been a huge undertaking. 
Oh and for a side note, for those preparing to come to China, if you like to use deodorant, and we do, you will want to make sure you have what you'll need for the entire trip, especially if you travel in the winter time, as we have.  For some reason, they don't sell deodorant in China, not anywhere we've been in Wuhan or Guangzhou in the winter.  They explained that Chinese don't use it in winter.   Somehow in his packing and repacking, Tim ended up without his deodorant, and found out the hard way that Secret really is strong enough for a man, but made for a woman.

A little under the weather

Well, it was bound to happen to one of us, since we really aren't afraid to try new things and so much is available.  Im just glad it was me instead of one of the others.  From what I have figured out it was probably the fish on the breakfast buffet.  It's usually really good, but, this time it had a bit of an off taste.  I didn't eat much, not enough to be full on sick, but, enough to have an uncomfortable night, and to know for sure that it was good we didn't end up on the dinner cruise last night.  would have ruined the whole thing for everyone else Im sure.  Since this body can stand to miss a few meals, it wasn't a tragedy to opt out of both dinner last night and breakfast this morning. 
This afternoon we head out to the US consulate here in Guangzhou, and for the first time in two weeks we will be on US soil.  I would bring back pictures, but, cameras are not allowed. 
We said a sad farewell to one of our guides, sweet Vicki, yesterday.  We gave her a bouquet of flowers, and she seemed very surprised.  According to Rebecca, Vicki was very touched that we would do that.  We're going to miss Vicki and Rebecca both.  Today we will be meeting the famous Lily, who was responsible for helping us find our Holly Jun and securing her file for us.
This morning Tim and Holly went with the group to the Botanical Gardens, I was not up to it and Matthew had homework to do.  Apparently it didn't go too well.  Holly has been learning that no means no, and there are limits, and she is none too happy about it.  She and I went round one and two this morning over me telling her to put her sweater in her suitcase, and her flat refusing with a naughty smile on her face.  Guess who won?  So, after being in time out once today already, she must have decided to test Tim to see if he is going to be a pushover or not.  It all started over a pin wheel.  Tim got her a small pin wheel, but, she wanted a really big one.  She threw herself on the ground, screaming and crying.  Tim stood his ground.   After a while of screaming, and refusing to move, she quieted down, but, as soon as Tim tried to get her some ice cream, she reeled back into it, An older Chinese woman came over and tried to give Holly the big
pinwheel she wanted, but, Tim told her no, and Rebecca did what she could to let Holly know she was being naughty and should stop.  Nearly the whole time they were there she was fussing and fuming.  Finally it was time to go, and at that she was fine again, but, it had been an epic battle and will go down in history as the battle of the pinwheel.   I give it one day before they go round two, the first battle over, parents 1 Holly 0, and the war is far from over.  She's a tough competitor, but, we're the seasoned warriors. 
It seems Tim has fallen in love with China and it's people.  He was saying this morning how much he's going to miss Guangzhou.  It's funny how this country has a way of becoming a part of you.

The last piece of the paperwork puzzle

We got the call this morning that our consulate paperwork is done, and there were no problems.  Truthfully, I was surprised, as nothing to do with our paperwork has been without problems, but, this time it all worked out, after a bit of tweeking.  The referral paperwork was all about when she was a baby, and had not been officially updated with new picture and medical report, just an update from the SWI about her progress.  I had to write in a brief statement about that, but, was it, and i was anticipating them wanting something more official than that.  I guess it was enough, and after the hoops we had to jump through to get to this point, it was high time. 
So, that means we have the day to do what we want, and tomorrow we can go to the consulate to do the official "Yep she's ours" in the eyes of the US government, and the next day we get her Visa.  Today a lot of the families are going on a dinner cruise on the Pearl River.  We're opting out of this one, We want to hit the Banana Leaf instead. 
This afternoon we'll head across the street to do a bit more shopping for more Chinese children's dvds and another suitcase for all the stuff we've bought.  Holly was really on one this morning, but, now she's quieted down and is playing with her toys, and reorganizing her suitcase.  She likes to unzip it, move things around, and zip it back up.
She played more in the bath last night, so, Im thinking she is starting to like playing  in the water.  It's so funny to watch her pour water over her head.  She takes a big bowl full and just dumps it over her head and laughs. 
We have to keep an eagle eye on her when we are getting on and off buses.  The traffic is crazy, and she doesn't realize she is in danger when she thinks she can be a bit more independant.  But, at least she isn't afraid to get a little bit away from Baba now that some time has passed and she's gotten comfortable with the fact that we are always going to be here with her. 
Yesterday was a break through day for her.  Tim had some things he needed to take care of, and that was not going to be a good situation to have a 5 year old tagging along for, so, I said leave her with Matthew and i, and we would just deal with the melt down when Baba leaves without her.  Well, guess what.  No melt down.  Baba just said he'll be back, and left. She watched videos, played with toys, had a snack, went potty on her own (after letting me know what she was going to do), and watched TV with Matt and I.  She's interacting more and more with me, and has a game that she plays only with me.  She hides something, asks me where it is, then when i say with surprise where is it, she laughs and produces it. 
Discipline is a key to having control over her behavior even now.  Being a 5 year old, she sometimes wants to be out of control.  We determined early that if it's going to be wrong later, it has to be wrong now, and that has worked great.  She appreciates knowing her boundaries, and what she can and cannot do.  She responds quickly. 
We did have a paperwork concern regarding her passport.  Turns out it was issued when she was two years old, which means someone petitioned to adopt her then, and changed their mind.  We're trying to find out if she was actually placed with the family and then given back, or if the province issued her passport when her referral was accepted, and the family changed their mind before they came to China.  It's not a huge problem, the passport is still good, but, it does raise the question about her story, and we have asked Rebecca to find out from Lily what exactly happened.  We really want to know as it is a piece of her personal history,  One of the other children in our group had been placed with a family, and they spent time with her in province just to turn her back over to the orphanage thinking there was something wrong with her, developmentally, when she is perfectly healthy and normal.  She's such a little cutie, I can't imagine how that must
have confused her, but, she now has a family that loves her.  So, sometimes these things work themselves out. 
Holly is now hugging her gugu, which is Chinese for brother.  She loves him.  So sweet.  And, she's playing with her toy Fayjee, which is Chinese for airplane.  We had no idea when we bought it that it made noise.  ah well. 
 Teri (50) in Utah, dh Tim (51)
Seven homegrown kids John 32, Jessica 28, James 23, Katie 20, Minuet 18,and Matthew 14, Myleigh YiXin 7 years old,and our sweet Nick who passed away far too soon at the tender age of 20 years old.
In China bringing home Huang FuJun/soon to be Holly Jun Nicole, 5 years old.

pictures

pictures

pictures

Two great days

The past two days have been great.  Yesterday we spent time at Shamain Island, the intent was to get Holly Jun's TB test looked at, which we did, and she had zero reaction so we were done.  Then we wandered over to Jordon's and did some souvenier shopping.  I felt really bad for Jordon, his whole life is wrapped up in a store that is slowly becoming a piece of adoption history. 
We had Holly's name written by Jordon in calligraphy, and translated into English,  apparently Holly means Beautiful Tender. 
We ended up getting all of our Shamain Island chochkies at Jordon's, and then just had lunch at Lucy's one last time.  Tim has decided the mint milk shake is a favorite.  After lunch we went to the White swan and took Holly's picture on a red couch, yes they're still there, on the second floor, and i just had to get one of her, since I have one of Myleigh.
On the way back to the hotel we stopped at the LiWan mall again, and did some pearl shopping.  Rebecca showed us her favorite pearl shop, and we watched as they strung and individually knotted each necklace and bracelet.  We ended up spending 30 dollars U.S. for a necklace and bracelet set in medium quality pearls. 
For dinner we had danny's bagels delivery, very authentic Italian.  Matthew was happy, he ate an entire pizza all by himself.  The night before we ate at Sahba , a restaurant that makes malaysian, vietnamese and chinese food.  Matthew was none too happy with what he ordered.  It was supposed to be bbq pork and noodles, but, ended up being mostly fat and bones and a little noodles.  He ordered a drink that was green, probably his first clue that it was going to be different, and it was.  It was like green jello with too much water in it, plus some coconut milk, and noodles.  yes, noodles.  He gave it the old college try, but, it just wasn't going to happen.  We got Holly some delicious coconut rice, soooooo yummy.  Since Matthew was not very happy with his dinner, i decided we would get a pizza or something for him, but, first we had to get the check paid.  Well, about the time we thought we were almost ready to go out the door, they bring out
"free dessert".  It looked like chocolate tapioca, and matthew was a bit happier about that, at least until he took a bite.  It wasn't chocolate.  It was red bean pudding with clear round noodles.  That sealed the deal for him.  we were going to have to get pizza. 
So, today was the Guangzhou Zoo and another shopping mall, the Jusco. 
The zoo is small, but, so pretty.  Lush gardens and palm trees all over, and except for the animal enclosures, it was very pleasant.  The enclosures were about what I expected, small, but, the animals were surprisingly happy, at least they were happier than the animals in our zoo at home in Salt Lake.  The big cats were the ones I felt the saddest for, as they were in very small enclosures, pacing back and forth.  Everywhere they were planting peach trees for the New Year, and probably to dress it up for the 2010 Asian games. 
We first took a shuttle around just to get the lay of the zoo.  It stopped once at the Panda enclosure, where Holly Jun came unglued at the sight of the sole Panda they had there.  It was out and walking around, then started eating a pile of bamboo.  She calls them shomo panda.  According to our guide Vicki, shomo is chinese for panda.  Holly just loves pandas.  After the shuttle tour, we all split up and walked around the zoo on our own.  It was such a beautiful day, and the sun even peeked out a few times. 
After the zoo tour, we headed over to a large multi level mall that had a Jusco department store in it.  The lower level is a grocery store, with so many things I wish we had available at home.  Dozens of mushroom varieties, and fresh fish, and herbs, and great vegetables and fruit.  I could go seriously crazy in that place if I had a kitchen here.  The other levels were clothing, jewelry , just everything you could want.  We found an RC car for Matthew, cheap, and very high quality.  While they were checking out cars, I took Holly , who was sitting in the shopping cart, to look around.  She was fine, and never even batted an eye at the fact that Baba was no where in sight.  We passed some stuffed animals, and she spied a panda.  I, of course, let her take it, and she gave it a big hug and plopped it in the cart behind her. 
We had already picked up some honey covered walnuts, and some dried green grapes, and a tin of different kinds of Oreos. 
We had one last item to hunt for, a special thing to bring home to Mindy, since we already had gotten special things for the other kids.  We found something for her there, got it on sale too, which makes Tim happy, and it's in the coolest box. 
We got back to the meeting point a bit earlier than most of the other families, and what do I spy next to that spot?  A starbucks.  So, we got two kiwi juices, and a caramel machiato for mama, and a souvenier guangzhou starbucks mug.  Ah, the day was complete. 
After we got back, we got take out from the Chinese take out place behind the hotel for lunch, then Tim went on the subway with Vicki to the China Southern office to upgrade our seats.  A little less than 2000 US for all four of us.   
He said it was such an adventure, and not once did he feel unsafe even when in what Vicki warned him would be a sea of people. 
Now we're deciding where to go for dinner, and then, tomorrow, a whole day to do more wandering around the shops in the area around the hotel.  We have to stay in the room until we hear from Rebecca about our consulate paperwork, praying there will be no problems, and then, we're outta here.
Thursday we have our consulate appointment, and Friday, we say bye bye to China and head out for home.  it's been a great trip.


 .

For the girls

Katie, Mindy and Myleigh,   Just wanted you to know that we have been running early in the mornings, so, we haven't been able to get on skype to call home.  I tried today, but, as it's Saturday night back there, at about 6pm, I figured you were at the competition.  We'll try tomorrow.  Probably about 6pm your time.    Teri (50) in Utah, dh Tim (51) Seven homegrown kids John 32, Jessica 28, James 23, Katie 20, Minuet 18,and Matthew 14, Myleigh YiXin 7 years old,and our sweet Nick who passed away far too soon at the tender age of 20 years old. In China bringing home Huang FuJun/soon to be Holly Jun Nicole, 5 years old.

Medical exam day

I'm posting this a day late, we were just too done in to post again yesterday.  Seems like Im playing catch up on my postings through this entire trip. Anywho, it's 6am Sunday morning here in GZ, and we are all starting to get up and moving, albiet slowly, ready for a day of fun for a change.  Yesterday was all about the Visa for Holly to enter the US.  We got up late, so we were a bit rushed to start with getting down to breakfast.  The restaurant sits right beside a Japanese garden, complete with bridges, coy ponds and a waterfall that falls from high up on the side of the building down a man made rock wall covered in trees and vines.  It was gorgeous to sit and eat breakfast with that view through the wall of picture windows.  After breakfast we exchanged 300 US dollars for 1900 Chinese Yuan, and met up with several other families from our group doing the same thing, including Gene Peacock.  It was great feeling like we were part of a group, and not out on our own as we had been the first half of the trip.  We wandered the garden until it was time to get on the bus with the other families.  Rebecca and Vickie were all smiles and of course Rebecca was full of enthusiasm and energy.  Driving through the streets of Guangzhou and getting closer to Shamain Island I was hit with emotions I hadn't encountered on this trip so far.  I remembered some of the scenery from my trip to bring Myleigh home.  By the time we were crossing onto the island I was having a hard time holding it back.  The construction on the island was widespread, but, not really as bad as I had been told to expect.  Perhaps some cleanup had happened since then.  We pulled into the parking area of the White Swan hotel and the tears were welling up.  It was just the same as when Myleigh and I had stayed there.  We walked in through the lower entrance passed the same statues from six years ago.  The rest of the morning was such a surreal re-living of the past memories.  The places were pretty much unchanged, but, there was a definite lack of adopting families.  Normally they would be everywhere you turned, but, besides our group and one other, I don't recall seeing more than a handful the entire day.  I showed Tim where I had taken Myleigh to pick out a stroller, in the shop by the check in desk, but, no more strollers.  Rebecca told us that once our medical and photos were done, we were free to go about as we choose, but, to meet back there by the check in desk at 2pm.  With that we all filed out to the photo shop where all adopting families bring their child to have the photo taken for their Visa.  One by one we moved through, and when it was Holly's turn, she smiled so big, and then Matthew tried to interact with her and she rolled her eyes to the side and smirked, and broke up the whole room.  It took two tries to get a picture of her not making a silly face. After that, it was off to the medical clinic.  It all went ok at first.  Until it was time to get Holly to cooperate with the doctor to complete certain coordination tasks.  She flat would not interact with the doctor at all.  Rebecca tried to talk her into it, but, no go.  After some frustration, the doctor just passed her off.  Not sure if there is a check box for stubborn, but, if there is, she passed with 100%. The eye exam was the same.  Each station had new people for Holly to decide if she wanted to cooperate with, and most were a no go.  This one was only marginally better.  Then we were done.  She was declared normal.  I could have told them that.  All that was left was the dreaded immunizations, and all the families were nervously waiting to find out, based on age and existing records, how many shots our kids were going to have to get all at once.  Holly was one of the lucky ones and only had to have four plus a TB test.  As we then waited, one by one filing into the cubicle for the shots, we heard the children ahead of us screaming and crying.  Holly just goofed around, didn't even notice.  When it was her turn, Tim held her on his lap, and they gave her one, two, shots, no tears, no fussing, no reaction at all.  The nurses were visibly surprised, and pleased, and we all cheered after each shot for how well she did, and they fawned over her about being so brave.  Then the third and the fourth.  Still, a big brave girl.  The TB test was injected under the skin of her forearm, and that was it.  She was done, and everyone was amazed.  They put cute bandaids on each shot site, and then gave Holly a piece of candy for being brave.  Then, the nurse reached in the candy jar and gave her another piece.  Holly was happy and smiling, just amazing.  From what I heard, at least one of the other older kids did just as well.  We walked out of the building relieved that one more step, and the most nerve racking, was over and we were free to wander my old stomping grounds. As we walked through the old streets, past victorian era homes and buildings, through the gardens, most not as grand as they used to be due to all the construction, there were three wedding parties having pictures taken.  We made our way to the Shamain Island park, and to Lucy's diner, for lunch alfresco.  Most of the other families in our group had already gotten there, so, it was fun to relax and just be normal for a change.  It rained off and on, but, we were dry under our table umbrella.  Afterwards we headed over to the White Swan but not before we took some cute pictures in the park.  I showed off the waterfall, the red couch where i took Myleigh's picture, and the birds in the huge cage that Myleigh adored.  Holly was in love with those birds, too.  We met up with the rest of the group and went back to the Garden.  Later on I met with the other members of our group that Rebecca said should be the smart person from each family.  Not that Tim isn't smart, but, I have done all the paperwork for this and for Myleigh's adoptions, so, when it comes to adoption, I'm smart.  I remember how long this part took last time, and how many papers needed to be filled out.  All of us were surprised when Rebecca said we were done after such a short time and filling out only one paper.   For the first time in this entire process it paid off to be a Hague family. By now it's time to think dinner, so we went across the shopping area, and hunted for what Rebecca called a trustmark.  Well, it ended up being a trustmart, but, ah well, close enough.  It was like a small target, and while we never found deodorant (they dont sell it in china this time of year) we did find a bunch of other stuff including a suitcase for Holly that only cost about 6 dollars U.S. There was a Starbucks on the way, but, I opted to skip it for now.  Right next door to Starbucks is a Haagen Daz store, like Cold Stone.  Might want to go there today.  We went to the 7-11 and picked up some other supplies, and decided to just eat in the hotel diner again.  It was quiet, so, that was good. Holly still won't sit on my lap, but, we're making some progress.  I'm upping the ante this week, and she's not liking it, but, hey, I'm the grown up.  She's so full of vinegar, always making faces, and smiling, and bopping around.  She adores Matthew, and they play and goof around alot.  Well, it's time to get them out the door for breakfast, and then we are having a group picture taken, and off to a huge shopping mall.  Teri (50) in Utah, dh Tim (51) Seven homegrown kids John 32, Jessica 28, James 23, Katie 20, Minuet 18,and Matthew 14, Myleigh YiXin 7 years old,and our sweet Nick who passed away far too soon at the tender age of 20 years old. In China bringing home Huang FuJun/soon to be Holly Jun Nicole, 5 years old.

We have been in Guangzhou for two days

Day two in Guangzhou and we are so happy to be here.  Wuhan was ok, but, GZ especailly Shamain island are bringing back so many memories of my trip to bring home Myleigh.  Sometimes overwhelmingly so.
We left Wuhan Friday afternoon, after returning again to the civil affairs office to pick up Holly's passport.  The registrar that Holly bludgeoned with her bunny was there, and was very happy to see smiles and strong attachment to her Baba.  It was all very quiet in the building, only our family and the registrar.  She made a little speech about how happy she was that we were adopting Holly, and thanked us for taking care of her. She wanted us to know we are welcome to come back any time to visit.  We gave her a bag of shoes and a jacket that are too small for Holly to give to the orphanage director as he is bringing another child to be adopted sometime in the coming days. 
Then it was time to go, and we all milled out of the office into the lobby area together.  The notary decided that this was a good time to tease Holly, took her arm and tried to take her from Tim.  Holly wheeled around and started to swing at her.  I could only imagine what she was thinking, "Look lady, I took you out once, and I can do it again"
At that, she wished us well, and we were out the door, Holly skipping along with a big smile on her face, looking adoringly up at her Baba.
We went directly from the registry office to the airport, and along the way we saw water buffalo wandering around along the Han river.  Eric told us how beautiful Wuhan is in the springtime, with so many wild yellow flowers everywhere.  We checked in, decided to check even our carryons through, Then Eric showed us where the airport KFC was located, and we said our goodbyes.  KFC was great, they had spicy pop corn chicken that was spicy, too.  All of us ate for less than about twelve dollars, U.S.
Getting through security in Wuhan airport was pretty easy and quick, and the airport is clean and modern.  Western toilets too. 
Holly was so excited to see airplanes, FAYJEE is the word for them in Chinese, and she obviously knew all about what was going to happen.  We boarded right on time, and I video taped her first airplane take off experience.  She sat between Tim and Matthew, leaning over Matt's arm looking out the window as we took off.  The plane trip was smooth and she very much enjoyed it.  An hour and a half later we were in Guangzhou.  The new airport is very nice.  Rebecca and her assistant Vickie were waiting for us.  Wow, Rebecca is a serious live wire, and Vickie is so cute and sweet.  Their English is quite good.
I was nervous about what we might find around our hotel, thinking deeper in GZ meant dirty and difficult to navigate but was thrilled with what we found.  The hotel is gorgeous and huge.  The area around it is clean, and plenty of shopping and restaurants.  There are walkways under and over the street, so, no worries getting across.  We plan to get out and explore after a 4 oclock paperwork session with Rebecca today. 
We got checked in with no trouble, and taken up to our room by a very sweet bellboy, and Vickie close at our sides.  You have to use your room key in order to get the elevator to go up, as a security measure.  Once on our floor it was fun to see that the doors are almost like secret panels.  Matthew thinks that's pretty cool.  The room is a two room suite, with a high tech bathroom.  Matthew has a rollaway bed in the living room, and we have two beds plus Holly's bed in the bedroom. 
We ordered room service, watched a movie, and off to bed we went.  Sigh.
More on today in the next update.

 Teri (50) in Utah, dh Tim (51)
Seven homegrown kids John 32, Jessica 28, James 23, Katie 20, Minuet 18,and Matthew 14, Myleigh YiXin 7 years old,and our sweet Nick who passed away far too soon at the tender age of 20 years old.
In China bringing home Huang FuJun/soon to be Holly Jun Nicole, 5 years old.

more

Teri (50) in Utah, dh Tim (51)
Seven homegrown kids John 32, Jessica 28, James 23, Katie 20, Minuet 18,and Matthew 14, Myleigh YiXin 7 years old,and our sweet Nick who passed away far too soon at the tender age of 20 years old.
In China bringing home Huang FuJun/soon to be Holly Jun Nicole, 5 years old.

pictures from our trip to the museum and some playing around the pool

Teri (50) in Utah, dh Tim (51)
Seven homegrown kids John 32, Jessica 28, James 23, Katie 20, Minuet 18,and Matthew 14, Myleigh YiXin 7 years old,and our sweet Nick who passed away far too soon at the tender age of 20 years old.
In China bringing home Huang FuJun/soon to be Holly Jun Nicole, 5 years old.

more

 Teri (50) in Utah, dh Tim (51)
Seven homegrown kids John 32, Jessica 28, James 23, Katie 20, Minuet 18,and Matthew 14, Myleigh YiXin 7 years old,and our sweet Nick who passed away far too soon at the tender age of 20 years old.
In China bringing home Huang FuJun/soon to be Holly Jun Nicole, 5 years old.

more pictures

 Teri (50) in Utah, dh Tim (51)
Seven homegrown kids John 32, Jessica 28, James 23, Katie 20, Minuet 18,and Matthew 14, Myleigh YiXin 7 years old,and our sweet Nick who passed away far too soon at the tender age of 20 years old.
In China bringing home Huang FuJun/soon to be Holly Jun Nicole, 5 years old.

another picture

Teri (50) in Utah, dh Tim (51)
Seven homegrown kids John 32, Jessica 28, James 23, Katie 20, Minuet 18,and Matthew 14, Myleigh YiXin 7 years old,and our sweet Nick who passed away far too soon at the tender age of 20 years old.
In China bringing home Huang FuJun/soon to be Holly Jun Nicole, 5 years old.