Well, today I began the routine. I dropped the boys off at school with Ariana. Ian has been doing drop off duty, but he had to go to Vancouver to wrap some things up, so I am on my own. I think we did ok for day #1. Yes, we were 10 minutes late, but we had a few hiccups and I clearly need to plan on loading up a car taking longer. Everyone was fed, clothed, and had their back packs so I called it a success. The goal tomorrow is to get everyone there on time too.

After dropping the boys off, Ana and I went to visit the baby room where she will one day go. We spent about an hour there. For the most part she sat in my lap eating cheerios and watching the action. But by the end, she was ready to join in the fun. It was a great opportunity for the ladies to get to know some of her special needs, like the fact that she still drinks from a bottle and that she has only eaten solid foods for 2 weeks. I was also showing them how to notice when she was nervous or stressed. For the most part, she was very content and happy in my lap. She just didn't want them to try to touch her. She didn't want the caregivers or the kids to touch her for a long time. I think we are going to stop in frequently. Not every day, but every so often for a little bit. She will get used to the kids and they will learn more about her each time too. I learned about a great sippy cup that is by Nuk I believe. It is a good transition from the bottle. I would like her to drink from a bottle with me in the rocking chair, but from a cup at school if possible.

After our visit we went to Stride Rite. I have been putting this off far too long and the news wasn't pretty. Basically she IS a size 5. But, her foot is so incredibly incredibly narrow (especially her heal) that the shoes slip up and down on her heal. In the end we had to go with a 4 1/2. It is exactly the right length- no spare room, and with good socks it stays put pretty well. They will probably last 2 weeks, maybe 3 and then we will need to get new shoes again. The sales lady thought I was mad. But, in the scheme of the adoption costs, a pair of shoes that fit were minor. I wonder if as she gains weight her feet will fatten up or will she always have narrow feet like my sister in law and mother.

When we got home we had lots of time to just play together and do a little picking up of the house.

The big challenge is when the boys get home at 3:30. Aidan really needs lots of attention and juggling Ana's needs is quite the balancing act. My poor 10 and 13 year old are getting neglected. They got dinner and some dinner conversation and that was it until the little ones went to bed and I could go and touch base with them.

Speaking of my boys, my 3 year old is up and needing some help, so it is another short one for today. This has definately been tough on Aidan. He is doing things to demand attention. (ie. acting out knowing it will force me to focus on him) even though I am working hard to give him lots of attention and mirroring play. He is also having lots of potty accidents now. He had done so well this summer and today alone he had 5 accidents. Fortunately, they were all overshadowed by the fact that he did poo poo in the potty and earn the dragon in the slide show I posted.


I want to take this opportunity to congratulate the newest mommies and daddies, all of whom had a successful day in court. Congratulations: Nicole, Bret, Laurie, Ed, Jennifer and her husband.

I also want to offer a prayer for the families waiting on court dates. May you hear great news this week: Angie/Curt, Kerry/Karen, and The Muellers.

Ok, now I am really off for the night.
Sleep well everyone.