Snot fest 2006

As of tomorrow evening we'll have been home with Maisie for an entire week, which is so difficult to believe. Also difficult to believe is that we're still sick, but getting better everyday. I still don't have a voice so most of my limited talking has been to Little Miss M. I'm surprised that she knows who I am day to day as I've gone from sounding normal when we met, to my Barry White voice and now on to this squeaky, broken weird voice, but she knows me and is more and more attached each and every day.

Maisie's personality comes out more and more each day and we're slowly working on getting her adjusted to life here and working on conquering her demons. Even though she is sick and having to adjust to so many new things and surroundings, she is a joy and we are so blessed to have her in our lives. She now does OK in her carseat but only when the car is in motion. Each day she spends a little more time in her highchair which allows both Eammon and I to eat at the same time. She'll do a little bit of independent play as long as Eammon and/or I are no further than 3 feet away. Next we'll work on getting her into her stroller and most importantly into her crib. Maisie has been attached to me virtually 24/7 since returning home and while I do love having her so close and allowing her to bond with me, sometimes this girl needs a rest as well as some private time in the bathroom.

We've been well taken care of by friends who have grocery shopped for us as well as all the wonderful meals that have been brought over. Even though everyone has been anxious to meet Miss M, we've really appreciated the time and space that we've been allowed to not only bond with Maisie but also for us to recover but we look forward to seeing everyone very soon and introducing you all to our beautiful daughter. I've added some Maisie pictures below, most from our time in China as well as a couple from home. I still plan to post about out trip once things settle down.

Wishing everyone a wonderful New Year.

No way, no how are you getting a picture of me on that sofa. Red couch photo op at the White Swan, Guangzhou.
Juan, our Beijing guide holding Maisie.
Lots of people wanted their picture taken with little Miss Maisie.
At the Great Wall.
Snuggled in Baba's arms whilst touring the Ming Tombs.
OK, I'm in the highchair but I'm not loving it.
Independent playtime.
Maisie & LiLi's first play date.