Week Two: Doctor Meeting, Social Workers, etc.

We recently made it through two of the necessary meetings here on behalf of Lily Grace: the meeting with our baby house doctor, and the meeting with the social workers who review our case.

Our meeting with the doctor was very informative, giving us all of the medical information they have compiled on her during her 8 months here. The doctor was amused by the giant list of questions that I whipped out of my notebook and Steve was actually able to use a couple of the Russian words we learned, much to her surprise and (we think based on her smile) approval.

Fortunately, Lily Grace hasn't had any serious illness other than Chicken Pox, as evidenced by the green “dye” they use as an antiseptic on her spots, and which were still on her head and body when we met her. Bottom line though, she appears to be healthy and as they put it: an extremely active and independent little soul. Their exact words were: “She will get whatever she wants in life because she goes after it.” We can only assume they have observed her “grass is greener” behavior with her friends’ toys in the playroom, as she scoots around on her belly stealing her favorites from their stash. Apparently we either have much to learn about toy selection, or about how to help her enjoy what she already has!

Each day we visit Lily Grace, she recognizes us more, is more excited to see us when we wake her from her naps, makes more eye contact and holds it longer. She is being drawn out and is interacting more with us and with others, instead of simply observing life around her. She is sitting up straight now and is scooting around much quicker, and has been lifting up on all fours even, in her attempts to get into crawl position. She’s got very strong little legs and back, which she displays by jumping on our laps or standing and holding onto us. Today she discovered she can bang cups together and make some amazing percussive noise, much to the complete delight and cheers of her parents. It’s been a real joy to watch her change before our eyes and bond with us more and more.

Thanks to all of you who have emailed us and posted on the blog. We appreciate each one of you and your supportive thoughts and prayers.

Tonya and Steve