Home sweet home

Hi everybody,

I'd like to keep posting blog updates for those of you who would like to continue to see how Gracie is doing. We've been home over two weeks, and she is responding to her new environment in fantastic form. The first few days were very difficult, mostly due to the 15 hour time difference between China and US West Coast. All three children were up in the wee hours of the night, and Gracie was particularly fussy in the evening.

What we came to discover is that she was suffering from ear infections in both ears. Ever since we started the anti-biotics and children's motrin she has been going down without a fight. She loves her bedroom and the stuffed animals and toys in there. But her biggest love is the 'outdoor sports' including tricycle, red wagon, scooter and bubbles (lots and lots of bubbles)! We are getting lots of reuse from toys that the boys have graciously handed down to her.

Gracie is VERY partial to Amy. She wants Amy to hold her a lot. She also goes off to play with Andrew from time to time. The weekends have been very fun. On her first weekend we visited the zoo. Last week we all went to the Washington County Fair, and she thoroughly enjoyed the carnival rides.


At the zoo with Mom


Washington County Fair


Gracie has also overcome her initial fear of Mario the pug. He has been docile with her, and he allows her to pat his head and pull his tail. She especially likes riding her tricycle while we walk the dog.


Walking the dog


At the zoo with Quentin, Andrew, Keaghan, Triston and Gracie


Petting zoo


Life feels much more hectic now that we're back in Portland. I have been back to the office, and we are doing our best to keep up with the house. Thankfully the boys don't have much strain with schoolwork and extracurricular sports. Each night we're pretty tired.

The trip home was exhausting. Gracie was very active, and also suffering from those ear infections. There was also a long wait as we cleared immigration in Portland. But those problems seem very small, now that we have her.

Talk to you soon!
-steve