Ava is very sweet, but also very serious. There were a lot of kids crying in the room, and she just watched and took it all in. She loved the toys we brought. She reached for everything we held out, and was most interested in the crinkle ears on one of the toys. She let daddy hold her for a bit, and we almost got a smile playing peek-a-boo. (It was more of a smirk.)
The 2 people that brought her up were so nice. They gave us all of her things that we had sent to Ava in care packages: a photo album, a stuffed panda, a doll, a blanket, a diaper bag, and 3 disposable cameras with all of the pictures taken. (Can't wait to see those!). They also had a book which documented her development since her birth which included pictures that we hadn't seen before. Our coordinator, Emma, is going to translate the entire book for us. The orphanage director sent us a gift. It was a hand carved chop, or Chinese stamp, of her Chinese name. It is very beautiful! And finally, we received a zip lock bag containing the clothes Ava was found in. Emma told us that this is the first time she has ever seen parents recieve the clothes. We are so grateful for all of these things, and we know that Ava will treasure these items from her past when she is older.
Congratulations!!! Looks like Ava was really taking it all in with those big beautiful eyes. So lovely to see you together at last!
ReplyDeleteThat room is so familiar we were there in March 2006 to meet our daughter.
Oh my goodness, congratulations! Ava is adorable!! Enjoy your time getting to know each other!
ReplyDeleteHOORAY....and Congratulations!! Ava is so beautiful. I bet it feels wonderful to finally have her in your arms. What a sweet moment for you all. I cannot believe that they saved all of those items for you.....that is so very special and I am sure you will treasure them always. Hope that you are having a great day in Changsha.
ReplyDeleteLisa