SETTLING IN
12/9-12/13: Life in the King-Varnes household is not quite normal yet (well, was it ever?) and we are certainly struggling our way through jet lag. Rich and I think we would be fine if it was not for those 3-4 hour long discussions with Eleanor in the middle of the night! Obviously, she thinks it is the middle of the day and we keep trying to convince her that when in Chicago, do as Chicagoans do! At one point I looked at the clock and it was about 1:00 am and as she was waking up, I said to Rich " we used to be getting home right now." Oh, how life has changed in such a short time!
However, other then jet lag we have been very fortunate. Eleanor remains her sunny self and has smiles for all she meets. We had our first doctor's appointment yesterday and she even smiled and "talked" all the way through it -- even showing the doctor her skills with clapping. The doctor said that she is meeting all of the 9 months old developmental milestones. We are stunned and feel so fortunate. I keep thinking that if this wonderful person has thrived with all that she has been through, how amazing must she be? Not many of us can shine in a bad situation -- I am in awe of her and already have such respect. How blessed are we that we will get to know this person and watch her grow into her life? And then I think: "please do not let us do anything to mess her up!" I am sure that is a lament of many parents!
So, I guess that this ends our travel journal. I was very surprised, but thrilled, at the reaction it has gotten and am really happy that so many people followed along on our journey. It so hard to believe that after all of that paperwork and waiting that the trip itself went so fast. Rich and I realized yesterday that we met Eleanor only two weeks ago -- is that really possible? Yes, this is going to be quite an adventure!
We certainly could not be at this point in our lives without the love and support of our family and friends. We look forward to sharing Eleanor with all of you and know that she will learn much from each of you. We are also thankful for the people that we have met along the journey and look forward to keeping in touch with Eleanor's Shaoyang sisters.
I will update with pictures in the "Eleanor at Home" portion of the website, so please check back periodically and, of course, please stay in touch as the real journey continues! |
