Wow- what a difference a day makes! AngeLina has really begun to show us her personality. Last night after we had recovered from the overwhelming “gotcha meeting” we ordered Pizza Hut pizza. Once again, it was really good. We ate quickly and had to go and take our first family photo for official paperwork. AngeLina was very hesitant and cried off and on throughout the evening… but only for a few minutes and without tears. My heart was breaking as she would push us away or move from us. Last night, not even Bradley could make her smile or feel comfortable. I was patient and gave her space. The foster mother let us know that AngeLina slept with her and was very shy and timid. It didn’t take much to twist my arm and let her sleep with us… plus, the crib was set very high and I was afraid that she would pull herself up and fall out. So… she slept with us through the night and only woke up once or twice- whimpered and fell back to sleep. She wouldn’t take a bottle all evening and wouldn’t even try any of the snacks we had for her. I was getting a bit worried. Throughout the night, I could tell that she was feeling for me and would pull herself closer at times. She woke up in a happy mood and took her first bottle from Richard. After the bottle, she played with Bradley for quite some time. After breakfast, we had an early meeting with the adoption officials and the notary. Our adoption is final here in China. Now we have a few more appointments to get her passport/visa and the medical exam. Both AngeLina and Claire were great during this official meeting. We brought toys and AngeLina loves being in her carrier/pouch. It has been a lifesaver! The Chinese people use blankets and rope to attach the children to their back. AngeLina is used to being carried this way. People from the streets were coming up to us and seemed amazed by the carrier- they were touching it and remarking- but I couldn’t understand a word. Fortunately they were all smiling. For a moment, I thought they would ask for our autograph! The Chinese people would stare at us and many of the girls would smile at Bradley. Throughout the day, we really began to see AngeLina’s personality. I don’t think she pushed us away at all and was so content and happy. Bradley has been such a help! And Richard is great also. She took a long nap with Daddy and I went to the store. When she woke up from her nap, she was evening happier. I think that she is teething because her nose is running and she was pulling at her ears. She doesn’t really act sick but you can tell that she is not feeling her best. During the day, she ate an entire cookie and really enjoyed the puffs and fruit snacks that I brought from home. We had a late lunch at KFC. AngeLina loved the mashed potatoes. She even drank water from a sippy cup! She has been laughing and waved to strangers that we passed on the street. She really likes the recordable cell phone… however, I think that Bradley likes it more! Guess we will have to buy him one! I bought her a new pair of shoes because the one’s I packed were too big! She is a tiny little thing—but so adorable! Guiyang is very different from Beijing. We are all surprised that it is such a large city- tucked right in between a few small mountains. We haven’t seen much of the countryside, only the city. The Chinese people are very nice here and seem happy for our family. We were told that the location where she was found is under construction and far away. Maybe the next trip, when we all come back to China, we can visit that area. I am looking forward to seeing some of the Province and visiting some of the local people. China is so diverse… our journey continues to be amazing! I am finally beginning to realize that this is all real! She is so precious. THANK YOU all for signing in on our guest book and for keeping us in your prayers! I am able to read it often… but it is difficult and SLOW to reply. This site will be a keepsake for AngeLina’s complete journey! We appreciate each and every one of you who have been a part of it! Miss you lots! Love, Sherri, Richard, Brad and AngeLina
