Weighing in at 17.7 pounds!
Not quite what we expected! Babies and their families were packed like sardines into this little medical building. It was loud, crowded and a free for all. Luckily, the smell was not so bad!! We arrived at the clinic at 9:20 AM or so, just ahead of another group of adoptive families. Our guide told us to run, so we could beat the other group through the doors. We were a sight to be seen!!
Weights and measures was our first stop! Fully clothed, Faith weighed in at a whopping 17.7 pounds. She was lighter than we expected!! (Seriously, look at those checks!) As far as her length goes, she is 27.5 inches. They also took her temp at this station and it was normal. Next stop was ENT (ear, nose and throat). We got a kick out of the hearing test! A squeaky toy and a rattle were used to check her hearing (purely scientific). Apparently, she could hear fine, as she looked in the appropriate directions. Next was the actual medical exam. She checked out just fine! When I inquired about the red blotchy areas that come and go, the doctor only said it was an allergy. He also never commented on her congestion or cough. We decided to just not say anything, as we are dependent on a clean bill of health to come home. At the exam, Faith was a perfect little angel, smiling all along the way.
After the exam, we hopped back on to the bus and took a trip to the "Friendship Store", which is basically a government regulated shop. All the prices are fixed! The purpose of this stop was to buy strollers and groceries. We continue to be fascinated by the layout of the Chinese Department Stores. On the sixth floor was the baby and children's section. The groceries were on the 5th floor. Can you imagine? Apparently, the Chinese typically go to the grocery store every couple of days. (We haven't seen a Costco yet.) At first glance, one would think that it would be difficult to transport too much by bike, but you'd be surprised. Dad (Gary), they can pack in stuff and bungee it down, almost as well as you!! That is a true complement to these Chinese men and women.
Upon returning to the hotel, we had just a little bit of free time. Then it was more paperwork. This time it was for Faith's visa and adoption finalization. Evan took this task head-on, while Christy and the kids went out to explore the area. At first Christy wanted to shop (that's a no brainer), but realized there was not enough time, as Faith had to have her visa picture taken in just two hours. Instead, Christy and the kids found themselves at a beautiful park. There were no slides or swings, but it was very peaceful and serene. The paths were made of rocks and stones with water flowing throughout. There were lily pads floating on the surface and Asian style buildings throughout. A perfect setting to enjoy a cup of hot tea. (As part of our $1 admission, tea was included.) We sat on bamboo chairs facing the lake, our tea cups were full and the teapot was still steaming hot. It was wonderful!! We really should have tea more often!! Plus, it is a lot less fattening than dessert.
Japanese dinner was on tonight's agenda. We sat around the table for some Teppanyaki. It was the best meal of the trip!!! Faith even had a little steamed rice. She continued to be a sweetie through dinner and caught the attention of all the waitresses! They all had to touch her and talk with her. I cannot help but to think that she has had more attention in the past five days than she had in the first 10 months of her life. She is eating it up!! She smiles so much!! We have noticed that she is a different person to those who know her versus strangers. She is very serious and stares you down until she gets use to you. After that, she is a bundle of laughs!! We can't wait until everyone gets to meet her!!! Speaking of that, we are hoping to have some kind-of "Welcome to America" drop-in party shortly after we return home. We will keep you updated. It will probably be a low-key cookie party or something of that nature (tentatively Sunday afternoon, December 18th). We are looking forward to sharing Faith with all of you!!!
Faith continues to amaze us!! She is sitting up, crawling everywhere and pulling herself to a standing position. Tonight she even started cruising the furniture. This is truly an incredible and extraordinary occurrence for an institutionalized baby. At this point, we have not seen any delays and are pleasantly surprised. In addition to her physical development, she is very sharp and loves to babble. I am guessing communication will be one of her strengths!! Right now, she is talking in her own language. Chinese or baby talk? We could not tell you! She seems to know what she is saying!!
Samantha loves playing with and watching over Faith. She has been a saint in this regard. Noah also loves spending time with Faith and has been a great big brother thus far. Both of them have been enjoying China and Faith!!
Tomorrow morning, we have another tour of something historical. Then shopping or a trip to a traditional Chinese Tea House. We will let you know tomorrow.
God Bless!
Guangzhou
