June was a very crazy month.
Jennifer turned 41. It was my first father's day. My mom came to visit. Ella turned 2. And, Gannett eliminated my position at the paper.
Life changes, and changes fast which is even more of a reason to stop and smell the roses.
Ella seems to just grow and grow. Not only in size but in maturity also. This past month or so, she has just been more fun than normal. She is very giddy, smiley and giggly.
My mom flew in for Ella's birthday, which Ella was so excited about. She talks about mamaw a lot. On her actual birthday, we went to Potters Park Zoo in the morning. Came home, ate lunch and then Ella went down for a nap. Once she woke, that's when we opened her presents. She got a bicycle, dollhouse, sand/water table, a recliner and so much more. Jenn had decorated the house with balloons and Ella LOVED them.
Here are some pictures from her day:
Yesterday, Ella's school (EC3) had a little parade for the 100+ kids for the Fourth of July. Ella waived the American flag the entire time around the block. It was hilarious.
Today, we went to Saugatuck before Mamaw leaves for home. We enjoyed the ArtFest and walking around downtown. After that, we went to Oval Beach where Ella had a BLAST in the sand and water. She didn't want to get out! Jennifer said, and I quote, "I think Ella needs to live somewhere on the water." So, I am putting it in writing for when I want to buy a house on a lake or something so she will never forget!
Below are some photos from the past month!
Saturday, July 02, 2011
Monday, May 30, 2011
Off topic and full of accomplishments...
Wow! Has it really been more than two months since we posted?
We have been extremely busy, but I'm not exactly sure what we've been busy doing. Life happens, I guess.
This blog has, mostly, been about Ella and our experience during the adoption process. From time to time, however, we have veered away from the original subject. So, today we will veer a little off the beaten path but, I promise, we will retun.
May will forever go down as one of my least favorite months... As most of you know, Larry had a profound influence on my life. He entered Kevin's world when I was seven. This past week was the year anniversary of his death. For the first year, I have gone through the sadness phase. I think I'm entering the anger phase now. I really don't understand why as there isn't anything I can do about it. But I am. I am angry.
At his death bed I was able to tell him everything he meant to me. Everything. One for not being sentimental, that made him uncomfortable. But I didn't care. It was about him realizing the type of man he was. The role model. The mentor. The father. The man.
What I am so angry about right now is the fact that he never met Ella. He isn't here to take her to Indiana Beach. He isn't here to take her boating. He isn't here to mess up her hair. He isn't here to teach her to ski. He just isn't here.
Knowing him, though, he probably did meet Ella. He is probably the one that helped bring the most wonderful gift anyone could ever bring to me. For that, I will be forever grateful.
Okay, enough of that. Let's return to our regularly scheduled subject...
Ella continues to amaze. The biggest question I get is about her speech. Does she understand English? Does she speak? Well, you are all invited to spend 10 minutes in our home and you will quickly understand why I just said that. Today, in fact, I was screaming inside my head... "shut up. Shut Up. SHUT UP!" she just never stops talking. NEVER! Yes, I'm grateful. No, I'm not complaining. But Lordy! Did my mother feel like this with me? Surely not.
She is combining words... mostly three and four word sentences. I'm sure most of it is due to her voracious appetite for books. She just LOVES to read.
She is running now and learning to hop. Really? You have to learn to hop? Yep!
Ella graduated from Early On last month. She no longer needs their services. Which is fantastic! They are just amazed at her progress. Need I remind everyone? She's a genius.
But she is screaming... a lot! It's quite annoying.
She knows her animals and their sounds. But when you ask her what daddy says... she responds with "I love you."
She knows all the parts of her body.
She says yes to everything, except food.
She mostly knows her ABCs, can count to ten and picks out colors.
She better! That Harvard tuition is nearly $60k per year! She sure is going to need a scholarship, though.
Jennifer and I did the thing we said we would never do... So never say never. We bought a mini van. I'm sure Larry is up there laughing his ass off screaming 'I told you so.'
Below are some photos over the past two months.
Be kind. Be safe.
We have been extremely busy, but I'm not exactly sure what we've been busy doing. Life happens, I guess.
This blog has, mostly, been about Ella and our experience during the adoption process. From time to time, however, we have veered away from the original subject. So, today we will veer a little off the beaten path but, I promise, we will retun.
May will forever go down as one of my least favorite months... As most of you know, Larry had a profound influence on my life. He entered Kevin's world when I was seven. This past week was the year anniversary of his death. For the first year, I have gone through the sadness phase. I think I'm entering the anger phase now. I really don't understand why as there isn't anything I can do about it. But I am. I am angry.
At his death bed I was able to tell him everything he meant to me. Everything. One for not being sentimental, that made him uncomfortable. But I didn't care. It was about him realizing the type of man he was. The role model. The mentor. The father. The man.
What I am so angry about right now is the fact that he never met Ella. He isn't here to take her to Indiana Beach. He isn't here to take her boating. He isn't here to mess up her hair. He isn't here to teach her to ski. He just isn't here.
Knowing him, though, he probably did meet Ella. He is probably the one that helped bring the most wonderful gift anyone could ever bring to me. For that, I will be forever grateful.
Okay, enough of that. Let's return to our regularly scheduled subject...
Ella continues to amaze. The biggest question I get is about her speech. Does she understand English? Does she speak? Well, you are all invited to spend 10 minutes in our home and you will quickly understand why I just said that. Today, in fact, I was screaming inside my head... "shut up. Shut Up. SHUT UP!" she just never stops talking. NEVER! Yes, I'm grateful. No, I'm not complaining. But Lordy! Did my mother feel like this with me? Surely not.
She is combining words... mostly three and four word sentences. I'm sure most of it is due to her voracious appetite for books. She just LOVES to read.
She is running now and learning to hop. Really? You have to learn to hop? Yep!
Ella graduated from Early On last month. She no longer needs their services. Which is fantastic! They are just amazed at her progress. Need I remind everyone? She's a genius.
But she is screaming... a lot! It's quite annoying.
She knows her animals and their sounds. But when you ask her what daddy says... she responds with "I love you."
She knows all the parts of her body.
She says yes to everything, except food.
She mostly knows her ABCs, can count to ten and picks out colors.
She better! That Harvard tuition is nearly $60k per year! She sure is going to need a scholarship, though.
Jennifer and I did the thing we said we would never do... So never say never. We bought a mini van. I'm sure Larry is up there laughing his ass off screaming 'I told you so.'
Below are some photos over the past two months.
Be kind. Be safe.
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Ella, the toddler years...
Ella is officially a toddler and challenging her parents every day. Regardless, it's still fun.
She loves to throw things out and wipe up the messes she makes. Seriously, any piece of lint she finds, she will throw them out. Yesterday, we found her taking tissues out of the Kleenex box and throwing them away one-by-one. The Kleenex box has officially been put up.
Related, she is completely loving the trash and where it is. Putting things in; pulling things out. A lock has been installed.
She is really trying to find her boundaries... which are very close together. She is saying "No" a lot now, which, I can only assume, is because that's the word she hears the most! HA!
Jenn purchased those wonderfully delicious Robin Eggs and we weren't going to allow Ella to have any due to choking hazzards... however, Ella found them and ate two of them before we knew what she was up to. After we moved the basket, she found it on the desk in the office, stood up and took it down so she could have ANOTHER one.
I was giving her a bath the other night and she stood up and took the wash cloth from me and began washing her private, personal parts. When I asked Jennifer if she had taught her that... Jenn said "No."
She is the nosiest little sprout I've ever known. I remember when Ryan/Emily visited us when we lived in Freeport... they had to be around 5 and 3... anyway, they went through the entire house and looked in every drawer/room/closet. Ella is worse... she pulls everything out and asks what it is and then repeats it before she's satisfied. Of course, she's only 20 months.
She just wants to do what she wants to do in the time that she wants to do it in... sound familiar, mom? ha ha
But nowadays, she is just changing so fast... there are times when we look at her now and compare to last week and she is just learning so fast! We love watching her develop and grow and learn and...
Below are a couple of videos we shot today... one of her making animal noises and the other is of her with her Froggy, aka "soggy".
Enjoy!
She loves to throw things out and wipe up the messes she makes. Seriously, any piece of lint she finds, she will throw them out. Yesterday, we found her taking tissues out of the Kleenex box and throwing them away one-by-one. The Kleenex box has officially been put up.
Related, she is completely loving the trash and where it is. Putting things in; pulling things out. A lock has been installed.
She is really trying to find her boundaries... which are very close together. She is saying "No" a lot now, which, I can only assume, is because that's the word she hears the most! HA!
Jenn purchased those wonderfully delicious Robin Eggs and we weren't going to allow Ella to have any due to choking hazzards... however, Ella found them and ate two of them before we knew what she was up to. After we moved the basket, she found it on the desk in the office, stood up and took it down so she could have ANOTHER one.
I was giving her a bath the other night and she stood up and took the wash cloth from me and began washing her private, personal parts. When I asked Jennifer if she had taught her that... Jenn said "No."
She is the nosiest little sprout I've ever known. I remember when Ryan/Emily visited us when we lived in Freeport... they had to be around 5 and 3... anyway, they went through the entire house and looked in every drawer/room/closet. Ella is worse... she pulls everything out and asks what it is and then repeats it before she's satisfied. Of course, she's only 20 months.
She just wants to do what she wants to do in the time that she wants to do it in... sound familiar, mom? ha ha
But nowadays, she is just changing so fast... there are times when we look at her now and compare to last week and she is just learning so fast! We love watching her develop and grow and learn and...
Below are a couple of videos we shot today... one of her making animal noises and the other is of her with her Froggy, aka "soggy".
Enjoy!
Sunday, March 06, 2011
Iwuvu... funny stories...
It's been a month since we last updated and it seems like so much has happened.
The most wonderful thing is that she now says "I love you", or "Iwuvu". That just melts our heart.
Here are a few funny stories...
- One night after work/school, Jenn and I were in the living room playing with Ella and we started singing the Hokey Pokey. When we got to the part about "turn yourself around", Ella started, well, turning herself around. We had no idea, but it was hilarious.
- She got into her first scuffle with a boy at school. Apparently, she was on her favorite rocking toy and he wanted on it. So, he grabbed her nose and she just sat there and looked at him, planted her feet and just stood her ground. Then the teacher pulled her off to see if she was okay and she just started sobbing because she didn't do anything wrong.
- One morning Ella pointed her purple ball and grunted. Jenn asked her what it is she wanted and she replied with "ball" and then signed "please". She is a very considerate little girl (when she wants to be).
- Ella received a sippy cup from a friend and it has Ella's name on it. The other day she pointed to it and said "E-L-L-A Ella". She's a freaking genius. And, no we didn't prompt her.
- Ella had her first snow dive! Daycare had taken the kids out for a buggy ride and when they got stuck in the snow, Ella went face-first into the snow. She was not happy.
Aside from the funny stories, she did have her first emergency room visit. I stayed home with her one day as she was sick and had a high grade fever, which spiked very high around 4:55 p.m. Jennifer and I ended up taking her to the local hospital and learned there was a pediatric ER. VERY NICE! We were out by 7 p.m. and the diagnosis was pink eye and nervous parents. She is all better now.
Ella is also walking now. She still crawls, but the majority of the time she is walking. It's hilarious. Check out the video below:
Our sixth month post-placement visit was two Mondays ago. We drove to Grand Rapids after a snow storm to meet with our Michigan social worker. We had to provide 16 photos of Ella. They could not be photos of Ella by herself and must be labeled on both sides. Our visit went just fine as Jennifer did all the prep work to save us time. (Yes, she is THAT organized!)
That Friday, Jennifer and I took Ella to daycare and then we had a date day... we even saw a movie! It was very nice to "play hookie" from parenting for a few hours.
Ella has really begun to love the outdoors. She loves riding in her red wagon and get some fresh air. We just cannot wait for this weather to break! At daycare, the teachers take them out for a few minutes every day. She, apparently, laughs every time the buggy gets stuck in the snow... except for when she does the face dive.
The biggest downfall as a parent right now is the fact that Ella is ALWAYS sick. It's like she gets over one cold and then the next one is right there. It is so annoying. Everyone tells us it's normal, but we are hopeful that when the weather breaks, so will the colds. If this isn't true, just lie to us and tell us it is.
Love to all...
The most wonderful thing is that she now says "I love you", or "Iwuvu". That just melts our heart.
Here are a few funny stories...
- One night after work/school, Jenn and I were in the living room playing with Ella and we started singing the Hokey Pokey. When we got to the part about "turn yourself around", Ella started, well, turning herself around. We had no idea, but it was hilarious.
- She got into her first scuffle with a boy at school. Apparently, she was on her favorite rocking toy and he wanted on it. So, he grabbed her nose and she just sat there and looked at him, planted her feet and just stood her ground. Then the teacher pulled her off to see if she was okay and she just started sobbing because she didn't do anything wrong.
- One morning Ella pointed her purple ball and grunted. Jenn asked her what it is she wanted and she replied with "ball" and then signed "please". She is a very considerate little girl (when she wants to be).
- Ella received a sippy cup from a friend and it has Ella's name on it. The other day she pointed to it and said "E-L-L-A Ella". She's a freaking genius. And, no we didn't prompt her.
- Ella had her first snow dive! Daycare had taken the kids out for a buggy ride and when they got stuck in the snow, Ella went face-first into the snow. She was not happy.
Aside from the funny stories, she did have her first emergency room visit. I stayed home with her one day as she was sick and had a high grade fever, which spiked very high around 4:55 p.m. Jennifer and I ended up taking her to the local hospital and learned there was a pediatric ER. VERY NICE! We were out by 7 p.m. and the diagnosis was pink eye and nervous parents. She is all better now.
Ella is also walking now. She still crawls, but the majority of the time she is walking. It's hilarious. Check out the video below:
Our sixth month post-placement visit was two Mondays ago. We drove to Grand Rapids after a snow storm to meet with our Michigan social worker. We had to provide 16 photos of Ella. They could not be photos of Ella by herself and must be labeled on both sides. Our visit went just fine as Jennifer did all the prep work to save us time. (Yes, she is THAT organized!)
That Friday, Jennifer and I took Ella to daycare and then we had a date day... we even saw a movie! It was very nice to "play hookie" from parenting for a few hours.
Ella has really begun to love the outdoors. She loves riding in her red wagon and get some fresh air. We just cannot wait for this weather to break! At daycare, the teachers take them out for a few minutes every day. She, apparently, laughs every time the buggy gets stuck in the snow... except for when she does the face dive.
The biggest downfall as a parent right now is the fact that Ella is ALWAYS sick. It's like she gets over one cold and then the next one is right there. It is so annoying. Everyone tells us it's normal, but we are hopeful that when the weather breaks, so will the colds. If this isn't true, just lie to us and tell us it is.
Love to all...
Sunday, February 06, 2011
新年快樂 Happy New Year!
It's the year of the Rabbit, according to the Chinese calendar. TheHolidaySpot.com says this will be a "temperate year with unhurried pace. For once, it may seem possible for us to be carefree and happy without too many annoyances."
I like that!!!
We celebrated yesterday at our first Chinese New Year with FCC Lansing. Ella had a ball, and as you will see in the photos below, she was all decked out! She was so excited and got to see dragons and rabbits and eat all sorts of Chinese fare.
Ella's daycare celebrated the New Year on Friday with decorations, red envelopes and cake. The teachers were teaching the kids how to say "Happy New Year" and talked about Rabbits a lot.
Below are many photos... Enjoy!
I like that!!!
We celebrated yesterday at our first Chinese New Year with FCC Lansing. Ella had a ball, and as you will see in the photos below, she was all decked out! She was so excited and got to see dragons and rabbits and eat all sorts of Chinese fare.
Ella's daycare celebrated the New Year on Friday with decorations, red envelopes and cake. The teachers were teaching the kids how to say "Happy New Year" and talked about Rabbits a lot.
Below are many photos... Enjoy!
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Ella is a gift, mostly to us!
It's been a month since our last post and so much has happened!
We flew to Florida to visit my family and had a great time. The weather in Fort Myers was absolutely perfect... mid-70s every day! In fact the only day with bad weather was the day we left!
Ella had a wonderful time and did especially well on the flights. She even earned her first set of wings! The flight attendants loved her and visited her throughout the flight to see what she was up to. She slept most of the flights, though. It was WONDERFUL!
New Year's Eve brought most of our family together. Ella got to meet several cousins and see her aunts and uncles again. It was fun to see everyone and Ella especially loved playing with her little cousins.
On New Year's Day, Mark, Ryan and I went to Orlando to watch MSU get clobbered in the Capitol One Bowl. While the outcome wasn't what I wanted, it was still fun to spend time with them and go to a bowl game.
We visited several beaches and Ella just LOVED the water and just being outside. In fact, she and I ran outside three times together. Well, I ran and she rode in the jogging stroller. She especially loved running (napping) on the beach in the morning and the other runners, walkers and shell collectors would just stare and comment at how beautiful she is.
As far as Ella's development... well, let's just say that Early On is extremely pleased with Ella. In fact, they all get excited when they get to see her and their team talks about her all the time wanting to know how she's grown, etc.
Ella is officially walking, but she prefers to crawl right now. That's according to her physical therapist, Christina. One of the things that we were supposed to work with Ella on was siting on a pillow and the standing up without holding on to anything. Christina went to show Jenn and teach Ella how to do it when Ella just did it ALL BY HERSELF without being shown!!! That's how smart she is!
For occupational therapy, Jen has now altered her schedule to see Ella in three months rather than every other week! She does not have any food aversions and is perfectly on target now!
Ella can say a little more than 50 words, which is well above the average 19 month old. She must get that from her daddy!
Her 18-month old check up was very good. She now weights 18 lbs, 15 oz and is 30 inches tall. She is still in the zero percentile of her weight but is now in the sixth percentile for height. At least she's on the charts now!
Dr. Chapin told us that she labeled Ella as three months old when she first saw her in August and she is now saying she's 15-18 months old. So she has aged 13 or so months in merely five months time! That's what happens with love, nutrition and opportunities!
We now don't have to go back until her two year visit! WAHOO! Ella's doctor has really wanted to keep her eye on her and make sure she's gaining and growing, so we've been seen a lot more often that what's normally necessary. But that's okay with us. It helps us with making sure we are doing the right things with her and just keeping her on task!
A couple of fun stories to share:
- When Jenn dropped Ella off at daycare earlier this month, a little boy, Everett, came up to Ella and gave her a kiss. THEN another little boy, Ben, gave her a HUG! While Jenn thinks is sweet and cute, this just does not make daddy very happy.
- Our first stare-down. Ella and I were playing with each other one night after school and work. Ella kept signing and saying "more", so I obliged. But then got tired so I told her "no" and signed we're "finished". She was not done, so she SCREAMED and SHREAKED "MOOOOOOORRRRRREEEEE!" with her hands together for signing. I quickly responded with "Don't you every talk to me that way." At which point a stare-down began. What seemed like an hour was probably more like five minutes. We just kept staring at each other and she finally pushed her head back and ROLLED HER EYES!
- Ella and I were doing grocery shopping and while I was trying to find something on the shelf, a woman walks by and looks at Ella and says "HI ELLA! How are you today?" I had no idea who this woman was... but it was very strange and uncomfortable for me.
She is just growing and learning so much. She is mocking everything now and is able to repeat, repeat and repeat! So daddy is really trying hard to watch his mouth!!!
EC3 (daycare) is very happy with her and has told us that she is just a "really bright little girl... and very intelligent." That was from the director of programs at the whole school!
She just brings everybody that comes in contact with her so much joy and happiness. Ella is a gift, mostly to us!
We flew to Florida to visit my family and had a great time. The weather in Fort Myers was absolutely perfect... mid-70s every day! In fact the only day with bad weather was the day we left!
Ella had a wonderful time and did especially well on the flights. She even earned her first set of wings! The flight attendants loved her and visited her throughout the flight to see what she was up to. She slept most of the flights, though. It was WONDERFUL!
New Year's Eve brought most of our family together. Ella got to meet several cousins and see her aunts and uncles again. It was fun to see everyone and Ella especially loved playing with her little cousins.
On New Year's Day, Mark, Ryan and I went to Orlando to watch MSU get clobbered in the Capitol One Bowl. While the outcome wasn't what I wanted, it was still fun to spend time with them and go to a bowl game.
We visited several beaches and Ella just LOVED the water and just being outside. In fact, she and I ran outside three times together. Well, I ran and she rode in the jogging stroller. She especially loved running (napping) on the beach in the morning and the other runners, walkers and shell collectors would just stare and comment at how beautiful she is.
As far as Ella's development... well, let's just say that Early On is extremely pleased with Ella. In fact, they all get excited when they get to see her and their team talks about her all the time wanting to know how she's grown, etc.
Ella is officially walking, but she prefers to crawl right now. That's according to her physical therapist, Christina. One of the things that we were supposed to work with Ella on was siting on a pillow and the standing up without holding on to anything. Christina went to show Jenn and teach Ella how to do it when Ella just did it ALL BY HERSELF without being shown!!! That's how smart she is!
For occupational therapy, Jen has now altered her schedule to see Ella in three months rather than every other week! She does not have any food aversions and is perfectly on target now!
Ella can say a little more than 50 words, which is well above the average 19 month old. She must get that from her daddy!
Her 18-month old check up was very good. She now weights 18 lbs, 15 oz and is 30 inches tall. She is still in the zero percentile of her weight but is now in the sixth percentile for height. At least she's on the charts now!
Dr. Chapin told us that she labeled Ella as three months old when she first saw her in August and she is now saying she's 15-18 months old. So she has aged 13 or so months in merely five months time! That's what happens with love, nutrition and opportunities!
We now don't have to go back until her two year visit! WAHOO! Ella's doctor has really wanted to keep her eye on her and make sure she's gaining and growing, so we've been seen a lot more often that what's normally necessary. But that's okay with us. It helps us with making sure we are doing the right things with her and just keeping her on task!
A couple of fun stories to share:
- When Jenn dropped Ella off at daycare earlier this month, a little boy, Everett, came up to Ella and gave her a kiss. THEN another little boy, Ben, gave her a HUG! While Jenn thinks is sweet and cute, this just does not make daddy very happy.
- Our first stare-down. Ella and I were playing with each other one night after school and work. Ella kept signing and saying "more", so I obliged. But then got tired so I told her "no" and signed we're "finished". She was not done, so she SCREAMED and SHREAKED "MOOOOOOORRRRRREEEEE!" with her hands together for signing. I quickly responded with "Don't you every talk to me that way." At which point a stare-down began. What seemed like an hour was probably more like five minutes. We just kept staring at each other and she finally pushed her head back and ROLLED HER EYES!
- Ella and I were doing grocery shopping and while I was trying to find something on the shelf, a woman walks by and looks at Ella and says "HI ELLA! How are you today?" I had no idea who this woman was... but it was very strange and uncomfortable for me.
She is just growing and learning so much. She is mocking everything now and is able to repeat, repeat and repeat! So daddy is really trying hard to watch his mouth!!!
EC3 (daycare) is very happy with her and has told us that she is just a "really bright little girl... and very intelligent." That was from the director of programs at the whole school!
She just brings everybody that comes in contact with her so much joy and happiness. Ella is a gift, mostly to us!
Sunday, December 26, 2010
Christmas 2010: A great success!
We are labeling Christmas 2010 as a great success.
As expected, Ella didn't quite understand everything, but it was still fun.
Jenn, Ella and I made my grandma's sugar cookies for Santa on Christmas Eve. Following her exact ingredients and even using her tin cut-outs, they couldn't have tasted more like them.
Of course, we left those with two carrots for Santa and the reindeer. Ella didn't understand but it was fun to see her point to the plate over and over again.
We also decided to begin a tradition of having Chinese food on Christmas Eve. Jenn made the dinner from scratch and it was very good.
I ended the day reading 'Twas the night before Christmas to Ella and explained that Santa was coming and she must sleep all the way through the night or she may not get any gifts. It sort-of worked. She woke up crying at 4 a.m. but then slept until 6:30.
As Jenn was bringing her downstairs she just had this look of "what's going on" on her face. But as we explained... she began to understand (or so we like to think).
She had 30 total gifts (and Jenn and I had seven) plus her stocking. Jenn began with her stocking and she was overwhelmed just with that. But when she saw her Radio Flyer wagon, that was it. She was done. She loved it. We took her riding around the house in it and she says "weeeeeeeeeeee" as we go. It's hilarious.
But we got through all of the presents... she loved them all. Her favorites are the wagon, her Asian doll (Cailin) and a piggy bank that is very interactive.
Of course, she has been very spoiled by her extended family... she loves all of the clothes, books, and toys she got. Since she's obsessed with shoes, she especially loved her Uggs that Auntie Monica and Uncle Jeff bought her. Seriously... she keeps pointing to them and tries to put them on her feet. HIGH-LARIOUS!
This week, I work Monday and Tuesday and then am off from 12/29 through 1/9. We will be headed to sunny Florida to spend time with my family (mom, brother, aunts, uncles and cousins). So excited to get to Florida and see my mom. :~) Jenn works Tuesday and Wednesday, so we each have a day to ourselves before our trip.
Mark, Ryan and I will be headed to the Capitol One Bowl on Jan. 1 to watch MSU play Alabama. I'm pretty excited about it and should have a fun (long) day!
Ella is such a joy... she is truly our gift this year.
Below are a few photos and videos from Christmas.
Love to all.
As expected, Ella didn't quite understand everything, but it was still fun.
Jenn, Ella and I made my grandma's sugar cookies for Santa on Christmas Eve. Following her exact ingredients and even using her tin cut-outs, they couldn't have tasted more like them.
Of course, we left those with two carrots for Santa and the reindeer. Ella didn't understand but it was fun to see her point to the plate over and over again.
We also decided to begin a tradition of having Chinese food on Christmas Eve. Jenn made the dinner from scratch and it was very good.
I ended the day reading 'Twas the night before Christmas to Ella and explained that Santa was coming and she must sleep all the way through the night or she may not get any gifts. It sort-of worked. She woke up crying at 4 a.m. but then slept until 6:30.
As Jenn was bringing her downstairs she just had this look of "what's going on" on her face. But as we explained... she began to understand (or so we like to think).
She had 30 total gifts (and Jenn and I had seven) plus her stocking. Jenn began with her stocking and she was overwhelmed just with that. But when she saw her Radio Flyer wagon, that was it. She was done. She loved it. We took her riding around the house in it and she says "weeeeeeeeeeee" as we go. It's hilarious.
But we got through all of the presents... she loved them all. Her favorites are the wagon, her Asian doll (Cailin) and a piggy bank that is very interactive.
Of course, she has been very spoiled by her extended family... she loves all of the clothes, books, and toys she got. Since she's obsessed with shoes, she especially loved her Uggs that Auntie Monica and Uncle Jeff bought her. Seriously... she keeps pointing to them and tries to put them on her feet. HIGH-LARIOUS!
This week, I work Monday and Tuesday and then am off from 12/29 through 1/9. We will be headed to sunny Florida to spend time with my family (mom, brother, aunts, uncles and cousins). So excited to get to Florida and see my mom. :~) Jenn works Tuesday and Wednesday, so we each have a day to ourselves before our trip.
Mark, Ryan and I will be headed to the Capitol One Bowl on Jan. 1 to watch MSU play Alabama. I'm pretty excited about it and should have a fun (long) day!
Ella is such a joy... she is truly our gift this year.
Below are a few photos and videos from Christmas.
Love to all.
Friday, December 24, 2010
We've entered the world of toddler-land!
It's been nearly two months since we last posted, our apologies.
Ella is just a completely different child now than she was when we brought her home and even from two months ago! She is truly a toddler, getting into anything and everything.
On the development side, she knows 30+ words. According to Early On a typical 18 month old knows five-to-six words. When Jenn told me that she said "obviously she takes after her father." I guess the apple really doesn't fall far from the tree. :)
From the walking perspective, she is so close. She is able to cruise along furniture and walk while holding onto mommy or daddy's fingers. Earlier this week, she stood by herself and took two steps. She's done that twice now. So, she is VERY close. She will also push her stroller or her scooter for quite a bit of time.
We've been teaching her some sign language to help us with "more", "thank you", "finished", "please", "up" and "down". This is solely to help with communication.
She loves to climb the stairs... going in both directions. She's a pro right now.
Ella is now 18 months and is just shy 18 lbs and 28.25" in height. She has increased her weight (and probably weighs more now) but has not grown in height at all. She is still in the zero percentile, but we just call her peanut.
EC3, Ella's daycare, has really come through with working with her. They have been instrumental with helping her walk, self feed and just getting her caught up. They love her so much, there. We couldn't ask for anything more. In fact, they even added a third teacher in Ella's room to give her some one-on-one time. Ella will be transitioning to a new room in the summer or fall; and, from what we hear, there are two teachers that are positioning themselves to get her in their rooms. The teachers all love her so much and fight over time with her. Again, we couldn't ask for anything more. It is so nice to go to work and not worry about her at all.
Jennifer and I had Auntie AJ come over and babysit Ella so we could just go out. This was our first time! AJ did great and Ella had a BALL. It was so nice going out and having dinner without any worrys about Ella. Thanks, Auntie AJ!
The holidays have been extra special this year, as you probably know. It's been fun buying things for her and having her sit with Santa. She really doesn't understand anything, but she certainly takes it all in. Christmas is something... we keep buying more and more stuff when she doesn't need a THING! But, Ella is what it's all about.
We are celebrating Christmas with just the three of us... which is what we wanted. Next Thursday, we leave for Fort Myers to visit my mom and her new place, and the rest of the family. Mark, Deb, Ryan and Emily will also be there along with my aunts and uncles and some cousins. It will be nice for all of us be together.
With MSU going to the Capitol One Bowl, Mark, Ryan and I will be making the trek from Fort Myers to Orlando New Year's Day to watch the Spartans beat the Crimson Tide (knock wood). That will be fun fun!
And now for what you've been waiting for... below are two photo galleries: one is the family photos we had taken in the Fall and then pictures with Santa. I'm sure we will update more tomorrow or Sunday after the BIG DAY!
Love to all!
Ella is just a completely different child now than she was when we brought her home and even from two months ago! She is truly a toddler, getting into anything and everything.
On the development side, she knows 30+ words. According to Early On a typical 18 month old knows five-to-six words. When Jenn told me that she said "obviously she takes after her father." I guess the apple really doesn't fall far from the tree. :)
From the walking perspective, she is so close. She is able to cruise along furniture and walk while holding onto mommy or daddy's fingers. Earlier this week, she stood by herself and took two steps. She's done that twice now. So, she is VERY close. She will also push her stroller or her scooter for quite a bit of time.
We've been teaching her some sign language to help us with "more", "thank you", "finished", "please", "up" and "down". This is solely to help with communication.
She loves to climb the stairs... going in both directions. She's a pro right now.
Ella is now 18 months and is just shy 18 lbs and 28.25" in height. She has increased her weight (and probably weighs more now) but has not grown in height at all. She is still in the zero percentile, but we just call her peanut.
EC3, Ella's daycare, has really come through with working with her. They have been instrumental with helping her walk, self feed and just getting her caught up. They love her so much, there. We couldn't ask for anything more. In fact, they even added a third teacher in Ella's room to give her some one-on-one time. Ella will be transitioning to a new room in the summer or fall; and, from what we hear, there are two teachers that are positioning themselves to get her in their rooms. The teachers all love her so much and fight over time with her. Again, we couldn't ask for anything more. It is so nice to go to work and not worry about her at all.
Jennifer and I had Auntie AJ come over and babysit Ella so we could just go out. This was our first time! AJ did great and Ella had a BALL. It was so nice going out and having dinner without any worrys about Ella. Thanks, Auntie AJ!
The holidays have been extra special this year, as you probably know. It's been fun buying things for her and having her sit with Santa. She really doesn't understand anything, but she certainly takes it all in. Christmas is something... we keep buying more and more stuff when she doesn't need a THING! But, Ella is what it's all about.
We are celebrating Christmas with just the three of us... which is what we wanted. Next Thursday, we leave for Fort Myers to visit my mom and her new place, and the rest of the family. Mark, Deb, Ryan and Emily will also be there along with my aunts and uncles and some cousins. It will be nice for all of us be together.
With MSU going to the Capitol One Bowl, Mark, Ryan and I will be making the trek from Fort Myers to Orlando New Year's Day to watch the Spartans beat the Crimson Tide (knock wood). That will be fun fun!
And now for what you've been waiting for... below are two photo galleries: one is the family photos we had taken in the Fall and then pictures with Santa. I'm sure we will update more tomorrow or Sunday after the BIG DAY!
Love to all!
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Developing Ella...
I can't believe October is over. It's been more than two months since we came home from China and there have been A LOT of changes.
Jennifer is now back to work, as of last week; which means, last week was Ella's first week at daycare. Overall, she's done really well. Drop off is not so fun as she cries every time I put her down to play or eat. It will get better, I know. Jennifer picks her up just after 5 p.m. and every time Ella falls asleep on the car ride home. So, we believe she's having a very busy and fun day.
Ella's development has really begun to take shape. Early On, Michigan's early childhood development program, said that Ella is - developmentally - a six-to-eight month old. So, she has physical therapy and occupational therapy about every other week right now. The goal is to get her to her normal age within six months.
Over the past four weeks, she is:
- Self feeding using her fingers
- Holding her own bottle
- Crawling on her knees
- Pulling herself up
- MUCH more vocal
- Mimicking a TON
- Moving from a crawling to a sitting position and vice versa
- (has) pulled herself to a standing position in her crib
Jenn and I were talking the other day at how busy we've been... in fact, we have had more company at our house than in the past 10 years. Thankfully, we have a bit of a break until Thanksgiving. We will be able to just have some downtime while we get into a new routine with her daycare. We've loved having everyone here and visiting, catching up, but we've really only had one weekend to ourselves in late September.
Ella's swimming lessons have concluded, but Jenn is still taking her to her early music class, which ends in December. She has become more vocal in the class and mocking the music and programs.
Her teacher's at EC3 are Miss Ada and Miss Jen. They are wonderful. Miss Ada especially has been spending a TON of time with Ella and, the best part, is that they offered to put an extra teacher in the Dolphin room (Ella's classroom) so Miss Ada can spend more one-on-one time with her. We really couldn't ask for anything more. They are spectacular to work with. Anyone in the Lansing area who needs a daycare/preschool/kindergarten facility should utilize EC3... EXCELLENT!!!
With Halloween, this past Friday there was a parade with all of the children at EC3. Jenn and I attended and saw them march around the block. We were toward the end of the parade and when Ella saw us... well, she reached for us both. It was really cute to see all of the kids.
Tonight was her first Halloween with us. We went over to the Jaconette's (thank you) and Auntie Ariana took her trick-or-treating while mom and dad watched. It was hilarious. We probably went to a dozen homes or so and by the very last one, she finally understood it.
You'll see some pictures below of Ella as a Panda.
Thank you to all of you who have sent presents, it is so sweet. The UPS and FedEx folks ring the doorbell and hand us the boxes and say "here's another one for the baby." HIGH-LARIOUS!
Of course, Ella just loves the paper!!!
I think that's everything for now... I'm sure the next two months will be INSANE with the holiday's approaching.
Love to all!
Jennifer is now back to work, as of last week; which means, last week was Ella's first week at daycare. Overall, she's done really well. Drop off is not so fun as she cries every time I put her down to play or eat. It will get better, I know. Jennifer picks her up just after 5 p.m. and every time Ella falls asleep on the car ride home. So, we believe she's having a very busy and fun day.
Ella's development has really begun to take shape. Early On, Michigan's early childhood development program, said that Ella is - developmentally - a six-to-eight month old. So, she has physical therapy and occupational therapy about every other week right now. The goal is to get her to her normal age within six months.
Over the past four weeks, she is:
- Self feeding using her fingers
- Holding her own bottle
- Crawling on her knees
- Pulling herself up
- MUCH more vocal
- Mimicking a TON
- Moving from a crawling to a sitting position and vice versa
- (has) pulled herself to a standing position in her crib
Jenn and I were talking the other day at how busy we've been... in fact, we have had more company at our house than in the past 10 years. Thankfully, we have a bit of a break until Thanksgiving. We will be able to just have some downtime while we get into a new routine with her daycare. We've loved having everyone here and visiting, catching up, but we've really only had one weekend to ourselves in late September.
Ella's swimming lessons have concluded, but Jenn is still taking her to her early music class, which ends in December. She has become more vocal in the class and mocking the music and programs.
Her teacher's at EC3 are Miss Ada and Miss Jen. They are wonderful. Miss Ada especially has been spending a TON of time with Ella and, the best part, is that they offered to put an extra teacher in the Dolphin room (Ella's classroom) so Miss Ada can spend more one-on-one time with her. We really couldn't ask for anything more. They are spectacular to work with. Anyone in the Lansing area who needs a daycare/preschool/kindergarten facility should utilize EC3... EXCELLENT!!!
With Halloween, this past Friday there was a parade with all of the children at EC3. Jenn and I attended and saw them march around the block. We were toward the end of the parade and when Ella saw us... well, she reached for us both. It was really cute to see all of the kids.
Tonight was her first Halloween with us. We went over to the Jaconette's (thank you) and Auntie Ariana took her trick-or-treating while mom and dad watched. It was hilarious. We probably went to a dozen homes or so and by the very last one, she finally understood it.
You'll see some pictures below of Ella as a Panda.
Thank you to all of you who have sent presents, it is so sweet. The UPS and FedEx folks ring the doorbell and hand us the boxes and say "here's another one for the baby." HIGH-LARIOUS!
Of course, Ella just loves the paper!!!
I think that's everything for now... I'm sure the next two months will be INSANE with the holiday's approaching.
Love to all!
Sunday, September 26, 2010
You never stop learning...
It's been very busy... as you can imagine, I'm sure!
Ella continues to do very well, growing and learning! Here is just a sample of things she's done over the past couple weeks:
- Swimming lessons: As many of you know, Ella is in swimming classes with daddy every Thursday night at the YMCA. The first class was canceled because of a little dirty accident in the pool NOT caused by Ella. But last Thursday was the first one. We had a lot of fun. She did Humpty Dumpty, Wheels on the Bus and the Hokey Pokey where her head went all the way under. Once that happened, she was DONE! It was hilarious. But she does love the water.
- Music class: Jenn takes her to MSUs early on music class every Wednesday evening. She's only had one so far, but had a really good time with it. She does love her music.
- Story time: Ella continues to go to the library every Wednesday morning for story time.
- Daycare: Once a week, Jenn takes Ella to her daycare so she can get acclimated and know the kids and teachers. Last Thursday, she had lunch there. Ella had a lot of fun playing with all the other kids... all boys... so I'm sure once she starts going in late October Ella will toughen up quickly.
- Baby showers: Last Sunday was a baby shower hosted by Jenn's girlfriends. We received a lot of great gifts, books, toys, etc. Everyone was so gracious... special thanks to Shalom and Danielle for organizing and hosting. We are very thankful to have such wonderful friends and neighbors. Today, the OC at the paper are hosting a shower for us... I'm sure we'll have a lot of fun there, too!
- Playdate: Ella had her first play date with Anabelle. She had SO much fun at their house and, of course, Sweetie-licious for lunch! She had her first bite of a Sweetie cookie... YUM YUM.
- Mid-Autumn Festival: yesterday, as part of FCC (Families with Children from China), we went to the Mid-Autumn Festival. It was a great time meeting all sorts of families with adopted Asian children and their parents and grandparents. Such a great group of people. Ella had a ball!
- Early On: the State of Michigan has a program titled, Early On, that evaluates children from a developmental perspective. They spent about 90 minutes at our home with Ella and Jennifer. Basically, they said she's developmentally delayed, which is no surprise. A report will be shared with us in about two weeks. We've heard these reports are an inch (or more) thick. Some immediate next steps include: vision/hearing test (Tuesday), joining an Early On playgroup (Wednesday), physical therapy and then occupational therapy. They really want her to focus on crawling, picking things up with her thumb and first finger, and naps. The more sleep she can get the better. They did say with all of this stimulation (which she's not used to) is just exhausting her. They were very happy with what we've (mostly Jenn) been doing with her. She's come a LONG way in a SHORT time.
Some great things also have happened in the past two weeks:
- She says her name, Ella.
- She kisses everything, even her daddy!
- She is doing the army crawl.
- She knows where her baby doll is -- Deb she LOVES the baby doll.
- She continues to eat very well... and has even started chewing... well, sort of.
- We received her birth certificates in the mail, which were incorrect. So Jenn called and got that all straightened out and now we have the correct ones. Apparently, my name is not Kevin McFatridge, it's Kevin Matthew.
- She is starting to hold her bottle by herself.
- She is discovering more of the house... checking out the laundry room and Jenn's office. She does really like to scratch the walls with her nails, which drives daddy absolutely CRAZY.
- She knows the word "No" very well now. She stops whatever she's doing, looks at me and then turns right around and does it again, quickly as if I wouldn't notice.
Below are a lot of random photos. We finally downloaded from our iPhones and our camera. We don't think there are any duplicates, but you'll find some of the things I've mentioned above.
Here's the thing... being a parent is hard. Yes, I know, this comes as no surprise to any of you that are already parents. And, it really doesn't come to any surprise to me either. However, what's hard is balancing work and life. I never realized how hard this would be.
I find that I just want to be here all the time and when I'm here, I'm constantly thinking about work and projects and ideas and and and...
I find myself jealous of my wife being the primary caregiver. But at the same time, I'm thrilled it's her and not me. This stems from when I asked how her day was and she said "for three hours we handed a subscription card back and forth to one another to work on her fine motor skills." Yeah, I could NOT do that. I'm so A.D.D. that the poor thing would be confused.
I find myself jealous of other parents whose 15 month old's (and some younger) are far more advanced than Ella. But Ella does things in her own time. It's fun to see the light turn on when she finally understands.
When Early On was out and evaluated her and Jenn filled me in on everything I found myself irritated that someone would JUDGE my daughter and tell me she's developmentally delayed. Yeah, whatever. But, I know they are here to help. So, I just need to get over it and help her.
And before any of you say anything, I know she was not given the opportunity to thrive. I know her chronological age is 15 months, but her emotional age is much younger... but I just want her to succeed and be the smartest kid I know she can be. I want to be able to provide whatever she needs to her... emotionally, developmentally, financially and security. And we are. These are just the random thoughts in my head. It's hard. It's just hard.
But, I'm loving every minute of it.
Ella continues to do very well, growing and learning! Here is just a sample of things she's done over the past couple weeks:
- Swimming lessons: As many of you know, Ella is in swimming classes with daddy every Thursday night at the YMCA. The first class was canceled because of a little dirty accident in the pool NOT caused by Ella. But last Thursday was the first one. We had a lot of fun. She did Humpty Dumpty, Wheels on the Bus and the Hokey Pokey where her head went all the way under. Once that happened, she was DONE! It was hilarious. But she does love the water.
- Music class: Jenn takes her to MSUs early on music class every Wednesday evening. She's only had one so far, but had a really good time with it. She does love her music.
- Story time: Ella continues to go to the library every Wednesday morning for story time.
- Daycare: Once a week, Jenn takes Ella to her daycare so she can get acclimated and know the kids and teachers. Last Thursday, she had lunch there. Ella had a lot of fun playing with all the other kids... all boys... so I'm sure once she starts going in late October Ella will toughen up quickly.
- Baby showers: Last Sunday was a baby shower hosted by Jenn's girlfriends. We received a lot of great gifts, books, toys, etc. Everyone was so gracious... special thanks to Shalom and Danielle for organizing and hosting. We are very thankful to have such wonderful friends and neighbors. Today, the OC at the paper are hosting a shower for us... I'm sure we'll have a lot of fun there, too!
- Playdate: Ella had her first play date with Anabelle. She had SO much fun at their house and, of course, Sweetie-licious for lunch! She had her first bite of a Sweetie cookie... YUM YUM.
- Mid-Autumn Festival: yesterday, as part of FCC (Families with Children from China), we went to the Mid-Autumn Festival. It was a great time meeting all sorts of families with adopted Asian children and their parents and grandparents. Such a great group of people. Ella had a ball!
- Early On: the State of Michigan has a program titled, Early On, that evaluates children from a developmental perspective. They spent about 90 minutes at our home with Ella and Jennifer. Basically, they said she's developmentally delayed, which is no surprise. A report will be shared with us in about two weeks. We've heard these reports are an inch (or more) thick. Some immediate next steps include: vision/hearing test (Tuesday), joining an Early On playgroup (Wednesday), physical therapy and then occupational therapy. They really want her to focus on crawling, picking things up with her thumb and first finger, and naps. The more sleep she can get the better. They did say with all of this stimulation (which she's not used to) is just exhausting her. They were very happy with what we've (mostly Jenn) been doing with her. She's come a LONG way in a SHORT time.
Some great things also have happened in the past two weeks:
- She says her name, Ella.
- She kisses everything, even her daddy!
- She is doing the army crawl.
- She knows where her baby doll is -- Deb she LOVES the baby doll.
- She continues to eat very well... and has even started chewing... well, sort of.
- We received her birth certificates in the mail, which were incorrect. So Jenn called and got that all straightened out and now we have the correct ones. Apparently, my name is not Kevin McFatridge, it's Kevin Matthew.
- She is starting to hold her bottle by herself.
- She is discovering more of the house... checking out the laundry room and Jenn's office. She does really like to scratch the walls with her nails, which drives daddy absolutely CRAZY.
- She knows the word "No" very well now. She stops whatever she's doing, looks at me and then turns right around and does it again, quickly as if I wouldn't notice.
Below are a lot of random photos. We finally downloaded from our iPhones and our camera. We don't think there are any duplicates, but you'll find some of the things I've mentioned above.
Here's the thing... being a parent is hard. Yes, I know, this comes as no surprise to any of you that are already parents. And, it really doesn't come to any surprise to me either. However, what's hard is balancing work and life. I never realized how hard this would be.
I find that I just want to be here all the time and when I'm here, I'm constantly thinking about work and projects and ideas and and and...
I find myself jealous of my wife being the primary caregiver. But at the same time, I'm thrilled it's her and not me. This stems from when I asked how her day was and she said "for three hours we handed a subscription card back and forth to one another to work on her fine motor skills." Yeah, I could NOT do that. I'm so A.D.D. that the poor thing would be confused.
I find myself jealous of other parents whose 15 month old's (and some younger) are far more advanced than Ella. But Ella does things in her own time. It's fun to see the light turn on when she finally understands.
When Early On was out and evaluated her and Jenn filled me in on everything I found myself irritated that someone would JUDGE my daughter and tell me she's developmentally delayed. Yeah, whatever. But, I know they are here to help. So, I just need to get over it and help her.
And before any of you say anything, I know she was not given the opportunity to thrive. I know her chronological age is 15 months, but her emotional age is much younger... but I just want her to succeed and be the smartest kid I know she can be. I want to be able to provide whatever she needs to her... emotionally, developmentally, financially and security. And we are. These are just the random thoughts in my head. It's hard. It's just hard.
But, I'm loving every minute of it.
Sunday, September 12, 2010
A lot of firsts and some great food!
It's been a little while since we've posted, but we've been a bit busy. :)
All of Ella's documents have been turned in to get her registration of foreign birth, which is her U.S. birth certificate. We should receive her birth certificate in about four-to-six weeks.
Ella met her cousins, Bryce and Aiden, and her uncle Jason for the first time over Labor Day. She had a wonderful time with them and loved to play. I think Bryce really took to Ella... and now believes she's real!!!
We also took Ella to the Potter Park Zoo for the first time. I think she was more amazed at the people than the animals, but it will come. That was an exhausting day as we kept her busy with errands.
The DeWitt Public Library offers a story time for toddlers. Jennifer and Ella were able to attend for the first time last week. The first 15 minutes is listening to stories and music and the last 15 minutes is floor (play) time with other kids.
This past weekend, we went to the lake for the Dunn's Fun Run, which honored Larry's life. It was very wet but fun at the same time. A lot of people came out and ran and walked in the rain. Ella stayed dry, but I did run the three miles.
While at the lake, Ella was able to meet her cousins, Ryan and Emily, her uncle Mark and aunt Deb, uncle Rick and aunt Susie, uncle Al and aunt Susie, and, of course, see her mamaw again. Many friends also got to meet Ella, too!
There were a few more firsts for Ella at the lake:
1. She had her first Sycamore (the best custard in the world).
2. She had her first taste of Sugar Cream Pie (an Indiana staple that NO other state offers).
3. She went to Riverside Park and rode on the Carousel.
It was great to see everyone and spend time together (even though it was a short trip). Ella received many wishes and gifts of which we are so thankful.
This week is going to be another busy week for her.
Tomorrow (Monday), Jenn is going to take her to her daycare facility to meet everyone.
Tuesday she has another doctor's appointment. We are anxious about this one to see how much weight she's gained. She's really become a little pig, lately. We are very thankful for that. It's been fun to see her belly (or Buddha belly as we like to call it) become larger.
Wednesday, she has story time again and her first toddler music class at MSU, both with Jenn.
Thursday is her first swim lesson with daddy.
Friday is our first post-placement visit with our social worker.
She is really changing in front of our very own eyes. She is becoming more vocal, ALMOST crawling (seriously, I think we have days until she's loose), she know's how big she is (sooooo big), she knows where the ceiling fan is (she looks up), she shakes her head yes when she is asked if daddy is her favorite, and she knows how to clap.
Everyone continues to ask us 'how we're adjusting?' That question perplexes me everytime we get asked. I mean... we've been waiting for Ella for more than four years and we've been wanting a family for more than 10 years. I don't really think there's an adjustment period going on at all. We love her very much and she has made our lives much more fulfilling. With that said, we've learned a few things:
1. It takes longer to get ready to do anything.
2. We can't be on the go all the time (I'm just reiterating this for my own benefit.)
3. Whenever we go somewhere, we have everything but the kitchen sink. I almost think we should purchase a trailer for her stuff.
4. Ella cannot tolerate being fed in a moving vehicle (she puked it all up).
5. We must be prepared for anything and everything. Which really means, we've added a change of clothes in the diaper bag.
With that all said (or typed), below are some photos for all of you...
All of Ella's documents have been turned in to get her registration of foreign birth, which is her U.S. birth certificate. We should receive her birth certificate in about four-to-six weeks.
Ella met her cousins, Bryce and Aiden, and her uncle Jason for the first time over Labor Day. She had a wonderful time with them and loved to play. I think Bryce really took to Ella... and now believes she's real!!!
We also took Ella to the Potter Park Zoo for the first time. I think she was more amazed at the people than the animals, but it will come. That was an exhausting day as we kept her busy with errands.
The DeWitt Public Library offers a story time for toddlers. Jennifer and Ella were able to attend for the first time last week. The first 15 minutes is listening to stories and music and the last 15 minutes is floor (play) time with other kids.
This past weekend, we went to the lake for the Dunn's Fun Run, which honored Larry's life. It was very wet but fun at the same time. A lot of people came out and ran and walked in the rain. Ella stayed dry, but I did run the three miles.
While at the lake, Ella was able to meet her cousins, Ryan and Emily, her uncle Mark and aunt Deb, uncle Rick and aunt Susie, uncle Al and aunt Susie, and, of course, see her mamaw again. Many friends also got to meet Ella, too!
There were a few more firsts for Ella at the lake:
1. She had her first Sycamore (the best custard in the world).
2. She had her first taste of Sugar Cream Pie (an Indiana staple that NO other state offers).
3. She went to Riverside Park and rode on the Carousel.
It was great to see everyone and spend time together (even though it was a short trip). Ella received many wishes and gifts of which we are so thankful.
This week is going to be another busy week for her.
Tomorrow (Monday), Jenn is going to take her to her daycare facility to meet everyone.
Tuesday she has another doctor's appointment. We are anxious about this one to see how much weight she's gained. She's really become a little pig, lately. We are very thankful for that. It's been fun to see her belly (or Buddha belly as we like to call it) become larger.
Wednesday, she has story time again and her first toddler music class at MSU, both with Jenn.
Thursday is her first swim lesson with daddy.
Friday is our first post-placement visit with our social worker.
She is really changing in front of our very own eyes. She is becoming more vocal, ALMOST crawling (seriously, I think we have days until she's loose), she know's how big she is (sooooo big), she knows where the ceiling fan is (she looks up), she shakes her head yes when she is asked if daddy is her favorite, and she knows how to clap.
Everyone continues to ask us 'how we're adjusting?' That question perplexes me everytime we get asked. I mean... we've been waiting for Ella for more than four years and we've been wanting a family for more than 10 years. I don't really think there's an adjustment period going on at all. We love her very much and she has made our lives much more fulfilling. With that said, we've learned a few things:
1. It takes longer to get ready to do anything.
2. We can't be on the go all the time (I'm just reiterating this for my own benefit.)
3. Whenever we go somewhere, we have everything but the kitchen sink. I almost think we should purchase a trailer for her stuff.
4. Ella cannot tolerate being fed in a moving vehicle (she puked it all up).
5. We must be prepared for anything and everything. Which really means, we've added a change of clothes in the diaper bag.
With that all said (or typed), below are some photos for all of you...
Thursday, September 02, 2010
Ella, work and lessons...
Ella is doing wonderful!
She is eating extremely well now. Sitting up on her own. Standing up on her own. Pulling herself with her arms (almost crawling). Sleeping well. Picking things up. Laughing. Giggling. Smiling a lot. Adjusting to her car seat and stroller.
She is such an angel. I mean, really.
This was my first week back to work and it's gone well. It's hard to leave every morning, but when I come home she just gets so excited, so that's fun. I am getting back in the swing of things, though. Everyone has been so supportive and welcoming, it's been very nice. I think they did miss me. :~)
Jenn is doing very well with her every day. She spends a lot of time with her working on development and Ella is really doing well. I think Jenn really loves it! She is a natural.
I signed Ella up for some swim lessons at the Y. We begin on the 16th from 6-6:30. I'm really looking forward to that.
Jenn signed her up for an early learning music class at MSU and I know she's really looking forward to that.
Below are some photos of her playing, eating her first ice cream at the MSU Dairy Store (hilarious) and my office on my first day back to work.
She is eating extremely well now. Sitting up on her own. Standing up on her own. Pulling herself with her arms (almost crawling). Sleeping well. Picking things up. Laughing. Giggling. Smiling a lot. Adjusting to her car seat and stroller.
She is such an angel. I mean, really.
This was my first week back to work and it's gone well. It's hard to leave every morning, but when I come home she just gets so excited, so that's fun. I am getting back in the swing of things, though. Everyone has been so supportive and welcoming, it's been very nice. I think they did miss me. :~)
Jenn is doing very well with her every day. She spends a lot of time with her working on development and Ella is really doing well. I think Jenn really loves it! She is a natural.
I signed Ella up for some swim lessons at the Y. We begin on the 16th from 6-6:30. I'm really looking forward to that.
Jenn signed her up for an early learning music class at MSU and I know she's really looking forward to that.
Below are some photos of her playing, eating her first ice cream at the MSU Dairy Store (hilarious) and my office on my first day back to work.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Doctors, shots and swingsets!
We are settling here at home with Ella.
Yesterday was a big day. Ella had her first doctors appointment.
We had several questions (of course, we're first time parents)!
Ella weighed 14.1 lbs and is 28.25" long. She is in the zero percentile of her weight and the seventh percentile for her length. And, that's on the Asian charts. Clearly, we have some work to do.
Also on her first appointment, she got three immunizations and a TB test. So, she was not happy. For more added excitement, we took her to the lab at the hospital where she had blood drawn. Boy oh boy, is that ever heart wrenching for the parents. You have Jenn, me and a nurse holding her steady while a second nurse is digging in her arm for a vein to get the blood. The poor thing cried so hard and was just so upset. Thankfully, at this age, she has a very short memory as she was smiling on the way out.
She goes back in three weeks for test results and two more immunizations.
Today, we met a friend of mine in Jackson and went to Ella Sharp Park and spent quite some time walking around. Below is a photo gallery of her at the park and her first time on a swing.
How sweet is she?
Yesterday was a big day. Ella had her first doctors appointment.
We had several questions (of course, we're first time parents)!
Ella weighed 14.1 lbs and is 28.25" long. She is in the zero percentile of her weight and the seventh percentile for her length. And, that's on the Asian charts. Clearly, we have some work to do.
Also on her first appointment, she got three immunizations and a TB test. So, she was not happy. For more added excitement, we took her to the lab at the hospital where she had blood drawn. Boy oh boy, is that ever heart wrenching for the parents. You have Jenn, me and a nurse holding her steady while a second nurse is digging in her arm for a vein to get the blood. The poor thing cried so hard and was just so upset. Thankfully, at this age, she has a very short memory as she was smiling on the way out.
She goes back in three weeks for test results and two more immunizations.
Today, we met a friend of mine in Jackson and went to Ella Sharp Park and spent quite some time walking around. Below is a photo gallery of her at the park and her first time on a swing.
How sweet is she?
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Home sweet home
Well, we made it home... THANKFULLY!
It was a long flight but a safe one, which is the most important. Ella did great for the first 10 hours of the flight, but the last five were rough. She was antsy and fussy but rightfully so.
It is so nice to be home, though. We can brush our teeth with tap water rather than bottled (or boiled) water. We can wash our clothes in our own washer and dryer (and, yes, Deb, I did buy Dreft). We are sleeping in our own beds and have our own stuff. We can walk outside and not feel like we need to take a shower... Michigan was a comfortable 80 degrees today!
Scheduling is going to be the hardest and most critical right now. Getting Ella on a schedule AND us on a schedule. We all, basically, slept until 1 p.m. today. Ella went down about 8:45 p.m. for the night. We, however, aren't tired at all.
Below are some more photos, including Ella's first time in a swimming pool. That was fun. And, our great friends the Jaconette's and the Wall's decorated our house and made us food for our first night (or week) back! So, sweet!
http://s888.photobucket.com/albums/ac84/kevinmcfatridge/Miscellaneous%20Ella%20photos/
It was a long flight but a safe one, which is the most important. Ella did great for the first 10 hours of the flight, but the last five were rough. She was antsy and fussy but rightfully so.
It is so nice to be home, though. We can brush our teeth with tap water rather than bottled (or boiled) water. We can wash our clothes in our own washer and dryer (and, yes, Deb, I did buy Dreft). We are sleeping in our own beds and have our own stuff. We can walk outside and not feel like we need to take a shower... Michigan was a comfortable 80 degrees today!
Scheduling is going to be the hardest and most critical right now. Getting Ella on a schedule AND us on a schedule. We all, basically, slept until 1 p.m. today. Ella went down about 8:45 p.m. for the night. We, however, aren't tired at all.
Below are some more photos, including Ella's first time in a swimming pool. That was fun. And, our great friends the Jaconette's and the Wall's decorated our house and made us food for our first night (or week) back! So, sweet!
http://s888.photobucket.com/albums/ac84/kevinmcfatridge/Miscellaneous%20Ella%20photos/
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Almost home...
Last night we made it back to Hong Kong via train.
Our time in China has come to an end.
While it's exciting, it's also very sad. We feel for Ella. The emotions she must be feeling, even at 14 months, has got to be difficult.
While we are proud Americans, it is also hard to know she will not grow up in the Chinese culture for which she was born into. We have learned so much about China and Hong Kong, and, in some respects, have fallen in love with it. It's been an amazing trip and a trip of a lifetime.
We are so saddened it's come to an end, but are so grateful at the same time. We are ready to come home. We are ready to drink tap water and not boil it first. We are ready for a dishwasher. We are ready for a washer and dryer. We are ready to not live out of suitcases. We are ready to see our stuff. Our home. Our other clothes. Our friends. We are ready for Ella to see her room. Her house. Her toys. Her yard. We are just ready to begin our lives as a family.
Jennifer and I are deeply indebted to Ella's birth parents. We feel for the loss they have. The emptiness they must feel. The toughest decision they have probably ever had to make. At the same time, we are filled with so much joy it's very difficult to describe.
Now the toughest job begins for us... raising our daughter. Teaching her right from wrong. Making sure she understands values, principles and respecting others. Being courageous. She needs to understand the value of a good education -- school is important. Remaining healthy and making the right choices for exercise and nutrition. Giving her all sorts of opportunities, whether it's swimming, music, or underwater basketweaving. We will support her in whatever decision(s) she makes.
I leave with one quote:
"All of our dreams can come true -- if we have the courage to pursue them." Walt Disney
Our time in China has come to an end.
While it's exciting, it's also very sad. We feel for Ella. The emotions she must be feeling, even at 14 months, has got to be difficult.
While we are proud Americans, it is also hard to know she will not grow up in the Chinese culture for which she was born into. We have learned so much about China and Hong Kong, and, in some respects, have fallen in love with it. It's been an amazing trip and a trip of a lifetime.
We are so saddened it's come to an end, but are so grateful at the same time. We are ready to come home. We are ready to drink tap water and not boil it first. We are ready for a dishwasher. We are ready for a washer and dryer. We are ready to not live out of suitcases. We are ready to see our stuff. Our home. Our other clothes. Our friends. We are ready for Ella to see her room. Her house. Her toys. Her yard. We are just ready to begin our lives as a family.
Jennifer and I are deeply indebted to Ella's birth parents. We feel for the loss they have. The emptiness they must feel. The toughest decision they have probably ever had to make. At the same time, we are filled with so much joy it's very difficult to describe.
Now the toughest job begins for us... raising our daughter. Teaching her right from wrong. Making sure she understands values, principles and respecting others. Being courageous. She needs to understand the value of a good education -- school is important. Remaining healthy and making the right choices for exercise and nutrition. Giving her all sorts of opportunities, whether it's swimming, music, or underwater basketweaving. We will support her in whatever decision(s) she makes.
I leave with one quote:
"All of our dreams can come true -- if we have the courage to pursue them." Walt Disney
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
It's official!
[Originally posted 08/16/10]
Today we had our appointment at the US Consulate’s office and took an oath.
Ella is officially ours and we will be free to leave China tomorrow upon issuance of her visa.
Cheers!
Kev, Jenn and Ella
Today we had our appointment at the US Consulate’s office and took an oath.
Ella is officially ours and we will be free to leave China tomorrow upon issuance of her visa.
Cheers!
Kev, Jenn and Ella
Photos...
[Originally posted 08/15/10]
Here are some more pictures: http://s888.photobucket.com/albums/ac84/kevinmcfatridge/
Love,
Kev, Jenn and Ella
Here are some more pictures: http://s888.photobucket.com/albums/ac84/kevinmcfatridge/
Love,
Kev, Jenn and Ella
The blessing...
[Originally posted 08/14/10]
Ni hao (Hello) from GZ (Guangzhou)
Ella gave her parents another decent night sleep, for that we are thankful. She is still battling the cough and rattling in her chest, but no fever or change in disposition.
We met our guide, Shinko, this morning at 9:30 to taxi to the Temple of the Six Banyan Trees. This temple is a stop for most adoptive families as the babies receive a blessing in the Buddhist Temple in from of the statue of Kuan Yin. We saw many other adoptive families there. We did not take photos of the blessing, we instead chose to video the ceremony. Ella was very alert during this process as the monk was chanting, ringing a bell and tapping on a wooden drum----at one point, Ella even joined in with the chanting.
We made a donation to the temple after the blessing. It is something amazing to witness and be a part of…no words.
We are waiting on her to wake up from her long afternoon nap. We will be heading out to explore more of Shamian Island as soon as she wakes.
We signed more paperwork for the US Consulate this morning with Shinko. Tomorrow, she will turn all of the documents in to the Consulate. This is the process to obtain her Visa entry into the US.
Below are a few photos of our day today, so far.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/52939577@N07/sets/72157624727313616/
With love,
Kevin, Jenn and Ella.
Ni hao (Hello) from GZ (Guangzhou)
Ella gave her parents another decent night sleep, for that we are thankful. She is still battling the cough and rattling in her chest, but no fever or change in disposition.
We met our guide, Shinko, this morning at 9:30 to taxi to the Temple of the Six Banyan Trees. This temple is a stop for most adoptive families as the babies receive a blessing in the Buddhist Temple in from of the statue of Kuan Yin. We saw many other adoptive families there. We did not take photos of the blessing, we instead chose to video the ceremony. Ella was very alert during this process as the monk was chanting, ringing a bell and tapping on a wooden drum----at one point, Ella even joined in with the chanting.
We made a donation to the temple after the blessing. It is something amazing to witness and be a part of…no words.
We are waiting on her to wake up from her long afternoon nap. We will be heading out to explore more of Shamian Island as soon as she wakes.
We signed more paperwork for the US Consulate this morning with Shinko. Tomorrow, she will turn all of the documents in to the Consulate. This is the process to obtain her Visa entry into the US.
Below are a few photos of our day today, so far.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/52939577@N07/sets/72157624727313616/
With love,
Kevin, Jenn and Ella.
The island...
[Originally posted 08/14/10]
Today we spent time in Guangzhou on Shamian Island and in the White Swan.
After the Visa medical visit, we went to the Swan Room, which is the children’s play room dedicated by Mattel, and played with Ella. We met some other adoptive parents from Minnesota and Tennessee. We had a nice conversation with them while the kids played with one another.
At that point, Ella got really sleep, so we came back to our room and she took a three hour nap. We couldn’t believe it!
During that time, Dong from Susan’s came and picked up our laundry for cleaning. He was in our room for quite a while with his son and he invited us for tea. Once Ella woke up, we had three different types of tea that Dong grew himself. He and his wife were very nice and welcoming. Of course, it was in his wife’s store and they were trying to sell us everything in there. But, it was neat to learn about them and their culture.
He told us that with Ella’s big ear (you know, the one I keep calling ‘Elephant Ear’ that Jenn gets really upset with me), that means she’s very smart and that she will live a long life.
At another store, Emma’s, I think, Emma herself told us that a big ear lobe will mean good luck and with Ella’s big ear, we’re sure she’ll have a big lobe!
Everywhere we went today people commented on how beautiful she is and how much hair she has (see, I told you)!
We ate dinner at Lucy’s tonight and I now have a favorite beer: Zhujiang beer. It’s made here in Guangzhou and is better that Tsing Tao. Mmmmmm!
Anyway, after dinner, we headed back to the room so she can go to bed for the night. She’s been a bit fussy today, but we think it’s because of her cold.
Tomorrow, we are meeting Shinko to go to the Temple in town to have her blessed. Jennifer and I are very excited about that. After that, we’ll take the famous “red couch” photo here at the White Swan. But once that’s done who knows what we’ll do. Probably spend some time in the pool! It looks yummy!
The temperature was 97 degrees today, but felt 109 degrees – that’s according to Weather.com, by the way. I’m not just making this stuff up!
Here are the photos I’m sure you’ve been waiting for: http://www.flickr.com/photos/52939577@N07/sets/72157624721840398/. Pay close attention to the final one with her hair! It’s hilarious!
Love,
Kev, Jenn and Ella.
Today we spent time in Guangzhou on Shamian Island and in the White Swan.
After the Visa medical visit, we went to the Swan Room, which is the children’s play room dedicated by Mattel, and played with Ella. We met some other adoptive parents from Minnesota and Tennessee. We had a nice conversation with them while the kids played with one another.
At that point, Ella got really sleep, so we came back to our room and she took a three hour nap. We couldn’t believe it!
During that time, Dong from Susan’s came and picked up our laundry for cleaning. He was in our room for quite a while with his son and he invited us for tea. Once Ella woke up, we had three different types of tea that Dong grew himself. He and his wife were very nice and welcoming. Of course, it was in his wife’s store and they were trying to sell us everything in there. But, it was neat to learn about them and their culture.
He told us that with Ella’s big ear (you know, the one I keep calling ‘Elephant Ear’ that Jenn gets really upset with me), that means she’s very smart and that she will live a long life.
At another store, Emma’s, I think, Emma herself told us that a big ear lobe will mean good luck and with Ella’s big ear, we’re sure she’ll have a big lobe!
Everywhere we went today people commented on how beautiful she is and how much hair she has (see, I told you)!
We ate dinner at Lucy’s tonight and I now have a favorite beer: Zhujiang beer. It’s made here in Guangzhou and is better that Tsing Tao. Mmmmmm!
Anyway, after dinner, we headed back to the room so she can go to bed for the night. She’s been a bit fussy today, but we think it’s because of her cold.
Tomorrow, we are meeting Shinko to go to the Temple in town to have her blessed. Jennifer and I are very excited about that. After that, we’ll take the famous “red couch” photo here at the White Swan. But once that’s done who knows what we’ll do. Probably spend some time in the pool! It looks yummy!
The temperature was 97 degrees today, but felt 109 degrees – that’s according to Weather.com, by the way. I’m not just making this stuff up!
Here are the photos I’m sure you’ve been waiting for: http://www.flickr.com/photos/52939577@N07/sets/72157624721840398/. Pay close attention to the final one with her hair! It’s hilarious!
Love,
Kev, Jenn and Ella.
Blowout, Guangzhou and shopping! Oh my!
[Originally posted 08/13/10]
We made it to Guangzhou and Ella did great on the plane with the exception of her poop blowout. That was hilarious… all over momma. Ha ha ha ha!
But, the White Swan is more than we expected.
Today we had Ella’s Visa photo taken and her Visa medical appointment.
She does not have an ear infection and the doctor believes she has a food allergy. Since Ella doesn’t eat anything but formula mixed with rice cereal we believe it’s the mixture of American formula with the Chinese formula. So we have removed the Enfamil from her mixture to see if that’s what’s causing the allergy. The only other thing she’s had is a little bit of apple juice mixed with water. But the rash appeared before we gave her that mixture. Let the testing begin!
Ella did really well at the Visa medical appointment and passed with flying colors. Her is 15 lbs and 28.4” in length. Her body temperature as normal and her lungs are clear. The doctor commented that she is a skinny baby.
While in the waiting room and at breakfast this morning, several other families commented on how pretty she is. I told you she was the most beautiful girl EVER!
While here at the White Swan, we’ve met a lot of other American families adopting. It’s been really fun comparing notes with them and learning about their children. I’m sure we will meet more.
They are very willing to share their experiences in Guangzhou with us, ie: Jordons is the place to go for squeaky shoes; Lucy’s is the best restaurants; Emma’s is also a great retail store; among others.
Guangzhou is absolutely beautiful. It seems to us like a resort town. There is a lot of construction going on because the Asian Games will be here in December. So, there is a TON of beautification going on. You will see just some of the photos we’ve taken below. English is very well spoken here and, again, the people cater to adoptive parents, especially American. In fact, the flyer from Jordon’s reads “American Adoptive Families”.
When we returned to our room at the White Swan, there was a box on our coffee table with a Barbie doll in it. The White Swan has a special partnership with Mattel. The Barbie doll is holding an orphaned China baby. The only way to get this doll is by staying at the White Swan. So, this made us very happy and laugh.
We are headed down to their play room where we will meet more people, I’m sure.
This hotel is really one of the more beautiful we’ve ever stayed. The service is amazing.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/52939577@N07/sets/72157624720250996/
Love to all,
Kev, Jenn and Ella
We made it to Guangzhou and Ella did great on the plane with the exception of her poop blowout. That was hilarious… all over momma. Ha ha ha ha!
But, the White Swan is more than we expected.
Today we had Ella’s Visa photo taken and her Visa medical appointment.
She does not have an ear infection and the doctor believes she has a food allergy. Since Ella doesn’t eat anything but formula mixed with rice cereal we believe it’s the mixture of American formula with the Chinese formula. So we have removed the Enfamil from her mixture to see if that’s what’s causing the allergy. The only other thing she’s had is a little bit of apple juice mixed with water. But the rash appeared before we gave her that mixture. Let the testing begin!
Ella did really well at the Visa medical appointment and passed with flying colors. Her is 15 lbs and 28.4” in length. Her body temperature as normal and her lungs are clear. The doctor commented that she is a skinny baby.
While in the waiting room and at breakfast this morning, several other families commented on how pretty she is. I told you she was the most beautiful girl EVER!
While here at the White Swan, we’ve met a lot of other American families adopting. It’s been really fun comparing notes with them and learning about their children. I’m sure we will meet more.
They are very willing to share their experiences in Guangzhou with us, ie: Jordons is the place to go for squeaky shoes; Lucy’s is the best restaurants; Emma’s is also a great retail store; among others.
Guangzhou is absolutely beautiful. It seems to us like a resort town. There is a lot of construction going on because the Asian Games will be here in December. So, there is a TON of beautification going on. You will see just some of the photos we’ve taken below. English is very well spoken here and, again, the people cater to adoptive parents, especially American. In fact, the flyer from Jordon’s reads “American Adoptive Families”.
When we returned to our room at the White Swan, there was a box on our coffee table with a Barbie doll in it. The White Swan has a special partnership with Mattel. The Barbie doll is holding an orphaned China baby. The only way to get this doll is by staying at the White Swan. So, this made us very happy and laugh.
We are headed down to their play room where we will meet more people, I’m sure.
This hotel is really one of the more beautiful we’ve ever stayed. The service is amazing.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/52939577@N07/sets/72157624720250996/
Love to all,
Kev, Jenn and Ella
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