Thursday, March 08, 2007

Adjusting

Ava slept much better last night. She went down at 8 p.m until 3:30 a.m. without waking up once. I, on the other hand, was up most the night. After she had a bottle, she slept for another hour and then was up for the day. Like my niece, Kenzie, Ava does not wake up happy. She cries upon awakening- whether it's after a nights rest or just a cat nap. I think the reality of the situation finally hit Ava today. She cried a few times throughout the day, it was so sad. She is doing really well but the adjustment for both of us will take a while. She only had a half-hour nap today so she is already asleep for the night at around 7:30 p.m. Earlier then I would have liked but she was very cranky and really wanted to steep.

We bought some smaller diapers at Walmart yesterday. We are going through 3-4 outfits a day because the diapers are too big on her so they don't fit around her legs too well. Walmart was quite the adventure. The food store part had the strongest odor because of all the fish and meat hanging around. I couldn't take it and had to get out of there. We were able to get the stroller and another suitcase.
I think that Ava just didn't feel like standing that first day because she is able to stand on your legs for long periords of time. I'm sure this didn't just develop in the past two days.
Our hotel in Changsha. We're on the 26th floor- very nice hotel.


We went to the Provential Museum today. It was nice. China has an amazing history.
A big thank you to all of you who have written in comments. We have really enjoyed reading them.

14 comments:

Anonymous said...

Michele, With only love behide this statement, I say "Welcome to Motherhood :)" Sleep has officially become a luxury, you'll be happier, but more tired. Avas reactions might not have anything to do with her being homesick, Jason has good, happy days and not so good, cranky days, she sounds completly normal to me. Don't worry it will get easier, in about 2 years, ha,ha... sorry I couldn't resist. Anyway, you have that adorable little face to wake up to,and love forever and nothing is better than that! Also try to sleep when she sleeps for now, many days I went to bed at 7:30pm with the kids (sometimes I still do) We miss all of you very much, Just another week and we will all be together! I can't wait for Ava to meet all her cousins, She has a lot of people to come home to who love her. Have a great day. We love you, Love Always, Debi oxoxoxoxox

Scott and Kim said...

Ava could not be any cuter! We love all those smiles! Her outfit and headband are adorable too. Glad you are getting out of the hotel. We love checking your blog to see your great updates and pics; thank you for sharing them!

Anonymous said...

Hey Michele ! WOW. I check out your blog every morning & it is so great to follow along with your wonderful adventure. Ava is the prettiest baby! Keep your posts on your blog coming!

Anonymous said...

Michele,

We're all following your adventure from work and really feel like we're a part of this! Ava looks like such a sweet girl and you are just beaming!

See you soon,

Nikki

Anonymous said...

Michele and Ava,

Can you believe you flew all the way to China and ended up shopping at Wal-Mart? Gosh, it really is a small world. :) Glad you were able to find what you needed.

I am loving the outfits Ms. Ava is wearing -- she is adorable.

Let me know if there is something you need picked up before coming home.

Enjoy!

Love, Kathy

Stephe said...

Michele, sounds like you are having a wonderful experience. Ava is just too cute for words!!

So, what size is she wearing and what size diapers? She's looks so much smaller than I imagined.

Lucky Momma you! It finally happened. I'm so happy for you and Ava!

Anonymous said...

Hi Michele, Mom & Dad,
It looks like you're all having such a great time! We miss you all so much! The girls love looking at all the pictures! Ava is so beautiful & perfect!!! We can't wait to see her. Paige came in my room this morning and couldn't stop talking about her & how beautiful she is and how she can't wait to see her home! We are all getting so anxious for you to bring her home! We miss & love you very much, Sharon, Steve & Girls xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo

Abby's Mom said...

She is blooming and more and more adorable with each photo. You look like you are doing a great job with her :)

Nikki said...

It is a huge adjustment for all involved! You all are doing great.
Love following along...brings back so many memories.

Mammarazzi Madness said...

What a beauty !!
Enjoy your trip.
Just came across your blog an thought I would say hello.
Andrea

Anne in NC said...

Michele, I just can't stop pulling up your blog. Ava is so cute and I just can't get enough.

Anonymous said...

Each entry just thrills me more than the last one. Is seems like you and Ava are getting the hang of each other and I for one LOVE to see her in multiple outfits each day. :) She is like a mini super model on the catwalk (hee, hee!). Sorry each outfit means a mess for you, but hey, the price of fashion, right? ;) Hope you get some rest lamb, and are able to enjoy the rest of the trip!

Anonymous said...

Elizabeth and I are just catching up with you and Ava today. Ok, we love the head gear! Ava is a doll! Good to hear that she is adjusting. Try to get rest when she naps. Miss you and love you, Amber and Elizabeth

OziMum said...

Ava is just cute as a button!!! She certainly looks warm enough... no altercations with the Clothing Police?!!!

I can't wait to get to China (obviously because our daughter is there) but also the culture/sights/
smells already intrigue me!!!

You look like you are settling into Motherhood really well. Ava looks very content.