Day Two

Today (Tuesday) we only had one appointment back at theadoption office where we were on Monday. I was a little nervous because the orphanage worker would be there and I was afraid Daniel would want to leave with her, have a meltdown when he saw her, or many other scenerios. I was very surprised that he hardly reacted at all upon seeing her. We finalized the adoption by signing more papers, took a picture of me and Daniel for some official document, and lastly was interviewed by a 'notary'.

This interview was a formality to ensure that I wanted this particular child and would not abuse or abandon him. The gentlman, when asked how many children I had, seemed to find it incredulous that I would be adopting still another child especially when I had 4 biological ones. He point blankly asked me, "Why do you have so many children?" I had not expected this question and was wondering if it was on his form in front of him. I said, "Children make my husband and I happy." (I could have said so many other things but that was the only thing that came out at that second. Darn it!) Then he said, "Are you a Christ?" (he pronounced this with a short i) I had no idea what the heck he was talking about and again wondered if this was a standard question. After I realized what he was asking, thoughts of that girl from Columbine who admitted she believed and was then shot dead raced through my mind. I thought, aw, what the heck...and I said, "Do you mean a Christian? Yes, we are." (Does this count for martydom even if he didn't pull out a shotgun? )

Afterwards, our guide who knew of this man, explained that he was trying to figure out the 'why' behind some adoptions and that he often asks off-the-cuff kind of questions. But this experience just brings home to me the sadess that exists in this country all due to a silly policy that has engrained in so many minds that many children in one family is just not necessary . (Also, try finding a double stroller in China. They are nonexisitent)

So on to Daniel and his adjustment. I am seeing gradual-ever so slight-moves of his bonding to us. Yesterday, we went to the pool (which is located on the rooftop of the hotel) where he had an absolute ball. He was running in and out of the kiddie pool, splashing, laughing-it was wonderful. At one point he ran over and leaned into me. Did not embrace me-no- the arms were somewhat down at his sides. But I grabbed the opportunity no less, and gave him a big hug and kiss. He allowed it-it was so close to a hug on his part-and then ran back to the pool.

Daniel came to us on Monday with a fever and a congested cough. This has been slowing him down quite a bit to say the least. Thank goodness for Tylenol!

-Liz

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We've seen some funny English signs so far. Here are a few.

-Sarah