Friday, September 19, 2008

Claire is Really Opening Up!

In just a couple of short days we have seen Claire go from being a little bummed out baby to one that is starting to feel herself around us and is willing to take a risk on us. She has even started to play with us. We have also got to see her walk, after a couple of days of not really moving from whereever you set her.
It's difficult to describe how small Claire is. Despite her age being almost 17 months, she's not much bigger than Emma was at 9 months when we left China. In fact, she's wearing 6-9 month clothes and the pants are very baggy. We were beginning to wonder whether they had just missed her age, although that is difficult to imagine as a possibility.

One thing that makes us come back to them having the age correct, is that we have discovered that she's partially potty trained. Seriously. We had noticed that she would go hours without a wet diaper, even when drinking plenty. We've heard stories of the Chinese potty training very early. So we stood her up on the potty seat and made a "psssssssss" sound and sure enough after a little bit, she peed. Now she's done it three times for us. She's been sleeping really well too. We put her down for nap or bed time and in about 2 minutes, she's out. We feel really blessed in every respect.

Friday was a day with no official adoption duties, so we and another family from Spokane, WA went to a children's park, with a lot of carnival type rides. The other family has a little boy, Ryan, who is 4, just like Emma, and well, there's no other way to say it......he has a huge crush on Emma. They had a great time at the park today. But, I'm pretty sure that Ryan kid can't be trusted!


Well, it is time to get ready for bed. We hope you all are doing well. We appreciate so much all of your thoughts and prayers for us on this journey.











4 comments:

Donna said...

She is so pretty and that smile is just the sweetest thing ever! I think she knows in her little heart she right where she belongs with the LInkous family!!! What a blessing. I love the new pics its awesome! Much Love!!!

David and Shelly Cline said...

McDonalds wasn't' the same without you Emma! We played with Katie and taught your Aunt and Grandma about the free ice cream cones! Your friends are anxious to get you back home. Have fun with Mom, Dad, and Baby C!!!

JJLink said...

You two have a beautiful family. I cannot wait to meet Claire! God has truly blessed you and it's such a joy to watch you take another child in. Thanks for sharing your journey with us. Hope to see you soon!

teresa biles said...

Hello to all--we miss you and love you so much. We are doing great here. Aunt Shari, Doug and Rebekah have joined us for the weekend. Baby Claire is so precious--I love her sweet smile and the way she gazes at her Mommy. Emma, you are such a good big sister and helper for Mommy and Daddy. Love you all lots and lots--can't wait til you get back home. Love, Mom