A Whole New World

Mallie Grace (she's responding really well to that name right now) is getting braver each day. It's such a blessing to see her relaxing each day and trusting us more and more. Naptime has gotten MUCH better. Today there were no tears at all! This is huge! Since the day we were reunited with her, naptime has been a big challenge (crying, kicking, yelling, etc.). She is starting to enjoy outside, too. The first day, I couldn't put her down. Yesterday, she walked a little, but was still very leery of her surroundings. Today, she was running up and down the hill chasing the basketball. She still wants me very close to her, but is starting to get brave. She even put her boots on today! As you can imagine, there are no fur-lined boots in Haiti. So, these boots really freaked her out when I tried to get her to wear them on the plane. I think she thought they were a live animal! She jumped back and was terrified of them. So, today I got them out again and she was fine with them. Every girl needs a good pair of boots. Yesterday afternoon was our biggest challenge so far. Robby took the boys to a movie and we never dreamed she'd get so upset. She tested every boundary possible and even cried for "Daddy" many times. At this point, we are just redirecting when she acts out and trying not to say "no no". That's very tough when you're talking about a toddler. Kids from hard places need to hear "yes" as often as possible. This is especially important in the beginning when she's learning to trust us to meet all of her needs.
Our hearts are so full and we are so in love! She gives the best "tee-bohs" (kisses in Kreyole) and we love that! When Robby got home from church today, she kissed him and said, "I love you, Daddy!"....totally unprompted. It was precious!
Sometimes it still feels like we're living a dream by living in the same house with her after gazing at her picture for so many months. We are truly blessed.

I'm amazed at her coloring ability. She has great grip on the pencil/crayon and works meticulously to stay in the lines. My boys NEVER spent this much time coloring at her age.

This girl LOVES to eat! So far, she's gobbled everything put in front of her, but our Thanksgiving leftovers of Turkey Noodle Soup and Turkey Pot Pie have been among her favorites.