Thursday, June 26, 2008

Like a library book, we're way overdue

Saying the past few days have been easy would be the lie of the century. We're all tired. Last night was REALLY hard on all of us. Emme screamed on and off from 2am-8:30am. It doesn't help when the neighbors bang on the walls. She is actually attaching to me in early stages and today gave me some unsolicited kisses. She prefers me and wants to be carried everywhere. She is going through the various baby stages (crawling, feet to mouth on her back) wanting to be fed and the next minute she is showing her independence by feeding herself, dusting the furniture (cleaning I've been told can be an orphanage behavior) and unpacking all the suitcases. It astounds me how bright she is and how quickly she learns. Today she said her first English word; banana. She is a bottomless pit and eats just about anything but has a love for bananas. It's a good thing we bought a bunch at the grocery store. Tomorrow we leave for Guangzhou and we arrive home on 7/2. I know tomorrow will probably set us back but I hope some fresh air and change of scenery will do us all some good. I couldn't have asked for a better agency who is doing what they can to take care of us across the miles. Our local guide this week is without words, one of the most amazing young women I've ever met. There is so much to Emme's story and so many people whose lives she has touched. Please keep us in your thoughts and prayers as we depart Chongqing tomorrow; the capital of Emme's birthplace. I would have loved to have seen where her life began but I already know we'll be back. We have way too much time to make up for and many special people to share it with.

17 comments:

Jeff and Madeline said...

I know you are totally exhausted mentally and most likely physically. By the time we reached GZ I was in auto mode or something because I really don't remember the details of it all, just a blur of this appt and that. Don't worry about the neighbors, we had a lot of comments and stares from our neighbors too. My favorite was the man on the plane in front of me who kept turning around and giving me horrible looks as my new 2 year old was in total meltdown and terror (we were in first class); I wanted to yell out "don't you see I am doing EVERYTHING I can and obviously I am more concerned with her pain than your freakin' staring!" The flight attendants, everyone was offering help and advice (it didn't matter). Just get through it for the remainder of the time and when you visit again you can enjoy the trip.
Hold on...

Maia said...

So glad to hear you guys making progress. I know this must be exhausting for all of you. Wishing you a safe trip and peaceful times ahead! I love that her first word was banana.

Lisa said...

It really surprised me how leaving Peyton's first home (province, since we didn't stay in her hometown) affected me...I really didn't expect that. But it was a very sad day for me, when I took her from there...I couldn't help but think of all that she was losing on that day. I, of course, was gaining everything, she gained some things too, but she was losing SO much...of course, you might be too distracted to notice, considering the challenges that you face as the two of you leave the hotel...

Lisa

TBG Happenings said...

The first 5 days are the hardest....when we left Sophie's province for GZ we were all tired and rady for a change of scenery. I am not sure if you will staying @ the WS or Shamian Island, but being there is a relief. You can walk around. There is a park, lots of shopping and lots of other parents. My husband and kids even rented bikes! You are getting close. In anothere 3 weeks you will feel human again!

safe and happy travels!

Lost and Found said...

You can only walk around if your child leaves the hotel (wink) She just woke up 40 minutes again screaming and again the neighbors are banging on the walls. At least we're almost done terrorizing one hotel

Debby said...

Lisa...it gets better....Wow! some English words already!! That's great. We will be saying a peaceful flight (or at least tolerable) prayer for you today. Good Luck!!

Debby

Doreen said...

Way to go Lisa! remember, it's baby steps.
Prayers go with you on your next leg of the trip getting closer to home.

Doreen in Montreal

RamblingMother said...

lisa, I am crying over here. I am so glad you guys are making even a small breakthrough.

Love you both!!

Anonymous said...

Lisa,

Sounds like some progress is being making. I just want you to know that I'm thinking of you and keeping all of you in my prayers!!! We were so sad to leave Chongqing and it seemed so sad to have Rose leave her homeplace, it's quite an emotional day!

MaryHelen
Lucky Mama to Rose

Anonymous said...

Hang in there honey. It was great to hear your voice today. it sounded just a little more upbeat. You are one brave and strong woman and loved by a whole bunch of us.

Cari said...

things are getting better it seems. I can't wait to hear more about your adventures with Emme. It certainly sounds like you're meeting some wonderful people along the way. I'm sure you're already an amazing mother to your little one.

Cari

Juliette said...

You're doing great! It's not easy but you already making progress.
Her loss is deep so she grieves but she gains a lot too. She has you and your love and she will get it.
Good luck for the trip tomorrow. Next one will be to go home, to a new routine that will makes things even better.
Banana!

Snowflowers Mum said...

I'll call Dole and have 150 bananas delivered to your apartment!

Cant wait til you are home.

kitchu said...

You and Emme are my heroes.

Love you both, safe travels and a prayer has been uttered that she does better on this flight...

Fliss and Mike Adventures said...

Haven't been around the last few days I know (work - what else) but you have been on my mind... take care and hugs to ya...

fivekidz said...

things should be easier for you in Guangzhou with other parents around,its easier to understand what is happening which hopefully will ease some of your stress. Emme is going thru so many changes, as hard as it is for you,YOU at least understand all the changes. My daughter attached very well to us and has been home 6 mos but last week we visited a little girl that was at foster care with her for the last 10 months in China and she still thought that she was being given to that family... she is four but still they worry. just know every day will get better, remember the smiles and giggles when things arent so great... Good luck hang in there she is so worth it.. peace and happiness Bonnie

Michele said...

Just to chime in here with the rest of the gang...you are one very strong and fantastic Momma and she looks wonderful. Enjoy the WS and the island, but hurry home so I can meet her too!

Love ya!