It's been a GREAT Week!

Yes, this week was like a turning point for us. Not that it had been bad before, I just can tell she is really understanding what we say and fitting perfectly into our family!!  We love her so much.

Since our last post, we've done a few things.....
We introduced Ruth to the Atlantic Ocean. That was interesting. The water was warm, but so huge and loud. The wind was blowing sand around and the temperature in the low 70's. I don't think Ruth could grasp where we were. She held onto me the tightest she ever has. I would lower her feet into the waves, but she'd lift up her hold body to avoid getting wet. Atleast Chloe and Timon had a GRAND time in the ocean. We WILL be going back to Atlantic Beach sometime soon. I've got to get her ready for next summer! hee hee.

 

The same weekend, we went to the NC Seafood Festival. Thank goodness for the one vendor who sold noodles and vegetables.

Also this week, Ruth has begun riding in the car seat without screaming! Simple solution found that helps... just take a moment to explain where we are going BEFORE you strap her in! I guess everyone doesn't like to move, move, move ...quickly, quickly, quickly... like me.

This week, we also got her portrait made. I can't wait to see the proofs. She finally put on the traditional Chinese outfit and we got a few shots in it.

Ruth shared several special moments and firsts with me this week....

1. She let me hold her while sitting down.

2. She willing laid her head on my shoulder and allowed me to sing her a few songs while standing up and "rocking" her.

3. She said "hot"

4. She is excited when she sees Chloe and Timon get in the car after school, as well as when Scott gets home from work.

5. We were able to go out to eat without a scene!

6. Smiles. Smiles. and More Smiles this week!

7. I had to speak firmly to her when she was fussing about riding in the stroller on the way to the festival. She looked wide-eyed at me and immediately quick screaming and rode quietly and contently in the stroller.

8. Bedtime is always an adventure. Ruth shares a room with Chloe. They go to bed at the same time, but Ruth likes to laugh and make noises which encourages Chloe to "check on" Ruth with a flashlight. The other night Scott went to their door and not only did Chloe get still, but Ruth laid down real quick in the bed. They both know our expectations....

9. Tonight Ruth climbed into Chloe's bed and cuddled up with Chloe's animals under the covers. She was determined to sleep there. After some smart moves of mine, she willingly got in her crib.

10. Clasps her hands together and closes her eyes for the blessing. She will also do this in church  or during bedtime prayers.

11. Enjoyed riding the big wheel in the driveway. She can go frontwards and backwards by moving her feet. (She still can't reach the pedals.)

12. Went grocery shopping with me. We bagged up the fruit, including bananas, and she helped me get other items in our cart. Only problem was the bagger man at the checkout! I think Ruth thought he was taking our food. From now on, I insist to help bag our groceries.

Then it was time for yet another festival. Chloe played the violin at the Down East Festival. We all cheered for her!

Then the week's highlight was sharing how we have seen God at work throughout this whole adoption process with our church family on 2020 Vision Sunday!