January 19th - Official Adoption Day!

Drew slept through the night and did well the first night with us.

Today we met Glen at 9 am to go to finalize the adoption.  Based on the numbers of families (as we met a few others in the lobby from different agencies), our Holt group stopped first at the Notary. We answered a few questions from the government official.

Luckily she had patience.  Drew threw a ball to her twice while Elise initiated the worst melt-down in her brief 4 year old life.  It started because her headphones weren't working. Not happy with the speed of our remedy, she melted into full tantrum.  In the busy professional office full of people, I carried out the screaming child while everyone looked on.  We never anticipated this issue - carrying her screaming with Drew content being carried (we thought it the other way around).  The fit continued on the bus ride to the government office to finalize the adoption and ceremony until she fell asleep.  (Note picture of scooter below with little boy.)

Our parenting was tested as she relentlessly demanded her iPad but we didn't give in.  Clearly the meltdown precipitated due to lack of sleep.  We're hoping she acclimates by tomorrow!

This meant that I carried a sleeping 4 year old into the office along with the gifts for the official plus orphanage staff plus foster family.  We met with the official to answer questions and to officially adopt him.  After each family met with her, we all gathered for the ceremony where she shared some kind words and presented each family the official adoption decree.

Here we are relaxing in hotel room after the eventful morning.  

Today he's cried more than yesterday.  It is a muffled, sad cry.  We are still trying to figure him out.  One meal he eats noodles, the next day he rejects them.  Never dull.  

He mimics many things.  If you wave at him, he waves back.  Derek was playing with the cups with him by putting one his head.  Drew put a cup on Derek's head.  He mimics clapping hands.  He likes his vtech microphone that plays music.  In sitting position, we waves his arms as the music plays.   He LOVES being held.  He just sits there - doesn't hang on or help in anyway. 

Elise enjoyed her fine dining experience in our room with the bird's eye view (note Ramen noodles brought from home) while Drew enjoyed his bottle.

After nap, we ventured into the mall to look for a new coat and shoes for Drew.  Along the way, we found a cupcake for Elise and finally shoes for Drew.  

We closed out our shopping trip with a visit to Dairy Queen.  Many of the same things as at home.

He ate dinner like a champ.  Doesn't enjoy diaper change and fussed a bit when going to sleep.  He'll get used to things.