Monday, March 31, 2008
I'm so tired and will retire early so this will be quick. Last night Anant woke at 4am and wouldn't be put back in his
bed after rocking him. So...we agreed to let him come in our bed or be up the rest of the night. He just doesn't want to be
alone. I slept fine after our baby was with us in our bed. We woke him up at 6:30 not wanting to screw with the schedule because
of being up for an hour overnight.
It was kind of a rough day. Started off fine but I think tiredness may have gotten the best of him in the afternoon.
He only napped for an hour too. Ugh.
We did our usual feeding of Derby, Breakfast. BTW eating hasn't been our strong suit the past few days either. Not sure
what is going on here. I know toddlers can go through this kind of thing so I'm not going to get too excited because I think
that will just make it worse. I bought lots of cheese today to add to his foods (whole milk of course). He took his bath then
I took mine. He couldn't just play in the corner with his toys that I brought in he had to put them in the tub and then dump
water on me. Well, he leaned over a little too much when getting the water in the cup to dump and got a little wet. He
was getting clothes out for me (not really but I think he was trying to help) and found a sports bra and nodded that he wanted
me to put it on him. Bad Mommy that I am I took a picture. Someday he will kill me for this humiliation. But this is how cute
and funny he can be. Then he saw a new pair of shoes that Theresa's siser sent to me. They were little leather dressy shoes.
I think he has a shoe fettish (not unlike his Mother). When he sees a new pair of shoes he gets excited and wants them on
(this almost never happens with clothes-he never wants to wear those-screams almost every time he is dressed. Except for his
doggie PJ's then we "woof" our way getting them on. So I ironed a white shirt given to us. How cute/handsome he looked. I've
asked Rob to post them (hopefully he can). Wait til you see these. In one of them he is dancing to Aradhna in the kitchen.
Never saw him dance too much before.
I played some music from BSSK (see my last post-someone had given us some music that they play there/sing there) and
the prayer that they say before meals this morning and when they were saying the prayer he pointed to his mouth like he knew
what usually came after the prayer. When I played the song he wanted me to play it over and over and over again. When he first
heard the song he came over and really perked up. Maybe he heard Aruna's voice. Maybe he misses her :-(
He wasn't a happy camper today. He was really whiny and pushing limits. Rob and I were just wondering if we have passed
a "honeymoon" phase with him and now he feels comfortable to act out. Maybe it is more grieving. I wonder if hearing the BSSK
stuff triggered some grief. Maybe I'm reading too much into it. Maybe he and we are just tired.
BTW, heard another word today "amen". We say this after praying with him all the time. He always claps and gets really
happy because he knows he is going to eat very soon (it had better be soon or we get a little impatient).
He is getting really good at identifying objects and things in one of the books that we have (first word books).
I tried to go to Weight Watchers today but got as far as the line and went home. Rob called and said Anant had a huge
tantrum when I left. He almost went to sleep then had a second wind. Rob didn't want him to go to bed without seeing me so
I quickly went home to make sure I saw him before going to bed. BTW, all day he was pointing out the window and saying Momma.
He does this when I leave too. I had to keep reminding him where Daddy was. At work. It was a rainy day today and a little
depressing. So glad Joyce came to visit. We enjoyed talking to her (at least I did). Anant would have played out in the rain.
The few times we had to go out like to take Derby out, he wouldn't come in without a fight. I was not about to play in
the cold rain. Sorry sweetie.
Primary MD visit is tomorrow. Going to bed. I'm sooooooooo tired.
Got to be ready for another day.
Good night all.
Mary
Sunday, March 30, 2008
I forgot to say yesterday that Anant said his name. I had wondered why I hadn't heard him say his name. Not sure if he
had said it in the past and how he said it. But he was playing in one of the kitchen drawers and he got ahold of a stainless
steel spoon. He was looking into it at his reflection and saying "Mamma" "Ana". Which I belive is his name. He did it again
today. So cute.
I actually sat through an entire church service today and part of the worship for the next. The first one Rob was in
the nursery volunteering so I sat with Neha, or should I say Neha came over to sit with me. I was happy not to be alone and
with you Neha, thank you!
Second service we thought we would have Anant stay for the worship as long as he could. Which now is not long. I think
that he was so overwhealmed in the beginning that he just zoned, but now he is a maniac. Walking around crumpling bulletins
and stealing other's bulletins. Oh, well, we tried. We'll keep trying. Nice to have him be involved in the singing at least.
Not sure how many calories he ate today. Not as good as yesterday I would venture to say. Yesterday was about 1000 give
or take (very rough). The IAC MD said that he should have about 1200 in order to build up/gain weight/catch up. He was able
to drink almost 2 cups of milk today and he did have some cheese in his grilled cheese (full fat of course). Without the sippy
cup lid we find he drinks a lot more milk so we will do this when we can.
Nap today, well, it was late because of church. He went down quickly and woke up after about a 1/2 hour or so. I rocked
him again and he woke up about 1/2 hour later again. He did seem to not listen to us as well. I've noticed that he is now
challenging us more than before. He is really smart and tried to distract us from giving him a hard time about disobeying
by doing something cute right afterwards. For those of you who aren't parents yet don't make the mistake we made today. Don't
laugh at somthing that later you will regret. Anant likes to push us over when we are sitting on the floor. Rob was trying
to get Anant to help him get up. Anant pulled him up by the hair and I used a phrase that is one of my Rob quotes about the
way Anant does things "well, that's one way to do it". We laughed so hard that Anant did this. A few minutes later he really
pulled Rob's hair and wouldn't let go. We blame ourselves in some ways because we made such a big deal and laughed so much
about it the first time. Anant was really sad when Rob was angry with him. I hate to see the bottom lip go out and hear him
cry. Of course he came over to me for comfort. He always goes to the one who didn't cause the trauma for comfort.
Last night Anant didn't wake up at all. He was tired. We woke him around 6:45, he really wasn't grumpy.
Tonight it took him a while to go to sleep. He gives such good eye contact, especially when I sing to him. I turned his
quilt over recently because I noticed he was looking at it and I think it was too stimulating, the vibrant colors. So I turned
it to the dark blue back (this quilt we have on the glider that we rock him to sleep in. He noticed that it had been turned
over and wasn't happy after I did this but is ok with it now. I left the small light on tonight hoping that this would
be similar to BSSK where he lived. My Mother reminded me that at BSSK they had one light on at night. We'll see how it goes.
At nap time I think the room is too light so I may try to darken the one window a bit to see if he sleeps better. If these
things don't work I may try music/radio. Just got from someone's website some of BSSK's favorite songs. What a treasure to
have these. I especially remember the prayer that they prayed before Lunch, after this they had a song on the MP3 recording
that I remember hearing them sing. We also have video of that day at BSSK with some songs. I got a little sad hearing them
today. Sad to know that Anant will not grow up in his native culture and sad for his losses. Although I still know that God
gave him to us and it is better for him to be in a family than an institution. But I'm sure he misses hearing his native tongue.
Now and then when I bring out my little Marathi words he perks up and listens. I said today Ekle Yea which means come here.
Rob said he really perked up to hear me say this. We still say "ka" to get him to eat and not play (he played a lot today!!!
Ugh!). We also say "stopbus" which means sit (not "stop the bus"). She-she kada is potty too. I sat with the child development
worker to get some Marathi pronunciations while at BSSK that day (it went way too fast!), Aruna (probably Anant's favorite
person there-there are many pics of him and her at BSSK). I wonder if they miss him there. Wonder how it feels to keep saying
good-bye like that. I know that working in a nursing home I get used to some things and usually they don't make me sad. Wonder
if it is like that for the workers at BSSK?
We went for a walk in the stroller today with Derby, it was fun. Then tonight Derby got a bath. Want to hear something
nasty? Don't read if you have a weak stomach, this paragraph is not for you. Derby likes to get into Anant's diapers and will
eat them. Gross. This is part of the reason Derby got a bath.
Anant had to, of course, watch Derby get a bath. He had his toothbrush in his mouth and would have taken Derby's quick
stop and put it on the toothbrush if he had been able to open it. The boy is into everything. He has to be watched all the
time. And you all thought I was easily distracted and didn't listen well before. Try to call me now when Anant is with me.
Now I'm really in trouble. People ask me when they call "is this a good time?". Well, with a 2 year old you just never know.
Don't get me wrong, I need the phone calls, PLEASE CALL! But its hard to watch him and focus on anything else. I usually fail
at one or the other.
The past 3 days I've been suffering with ulcers on my tongue. Not sure where this is coming from?? They hurt sooo bad.
I mean really bad. Especially when I eat. Oh, brother, if its not one thing its another. I would hope that this would keep
me from eating. Maybe this is God telling me to stop eating? Mabye I should listen. I still find myself stress eating. Especially
yesterday. PB and grahams. We don't buy sweets anymore so, you do with what you have.
It was really good to hear the sermon today about Jesus being our High Priest and the confidence we have in coming to
God because of His sufficiency. I was encouraged. Tonight I told Anant that Mommy loves him VERY much, but Jesus loves him
so much more than Mommy ever could. It made me cry. Looking into his eyes. God is so good. I love this little boy.
Well, better go to bed. Its getting late.
Mary
Saturday, March 29, 2008
Well, today was a rough day. Rob and I have some disagreement about the sleeping situation. Anant is not napping well
this week. Rob thinks that it is him wanting what he wants and thinks we should let him cry it out. So today we let him cry
for 10 minute increments. I have a really hard time hearing my child scream and cry like this. Also, I feel that it is an
attachment issue that when he cries, someone comes and I think we need to establish this with him. Also, I think he is really
scared to be alone (he was NEVER alone in India) and knows when we put him in his bed he will be alone. We need prayer
for wisdom and agreement.
It wasn't all bad today. Anant didn't really have too hard a time. Just a little more prone to being cranky.
We went outside today and chased some birds. Anant walked up the neighbor's driveway to stare at their dogs in their
sunroom. No privacy around here. The neighbor was still in her PJ's and reading her paper! The dogs were barking and
so he REALLY enjoyed watching them. When we go past any house that he has seen dogs in he does his dog bark. Sounds like Ooooo
Oooooo Ooooo. Which is different from his car sound. Although I have a hard time differentiating. But sure enough when I look
for the dog (because my boy does know what he is talking about!) I see a truck and realize how stupid I am that I didn't figure
that out.
We took out some simpler books today and put away some of the wordy ones. He did so much better. He had me read So
Big at least 5 times today. That is great for attention span. Not sure if I believe that he has a problem with attention
span. It just might be the books/toys we have out for him to play with. If he doesn't understand it then he chucks it. I do
too! Another book we read (actually it is mostly pictures) was Good Dog Carl which Rob and I call "Bad Mommy". The
Mother in the beginning of the book leaves the baby with Carl and goes out and asks Carl to watch the baby. Well, after she
leaves they get into all kinds of trouble. They raid the fridge, the baby slides down the laundry chute, they get into Mom's
make-up and jewelry, the baby swims in the fish tank, they jam to music, jump on beds. I just loved this book it was so entertaining.
Anant seemed to like it. The second time we read it (BTW the only words are Mom telling Carl to watch the baby I think) he
pointed at the Mom and said "Momma". Cute.
Anant put his kaleidoscope in Derby's bed tonight and Derby looked like "what is that doing in here, oh well, its that
crazy kid again". Anant does seem to like Derby now and will hug him and throw his toy for him. He will also get the leash
and tell me its time to take Derby out. Anant, of course needs to come too. Anant likes to hold the poop bag too (yuck!).
The bean game that the OT told us to do with him to increase his fine motor skills by scooping with measuring cups dried
beans into plastic containers backfires every time. He loves playing with the beans. But he gets too creative with them and
flings them everywhere. Then, of course he doesn't want to pick them up (I think he understands me when I ask him to?). I
end up having to take them away because I'm tired of cleaning up beans. I think he gets bored with it. Smart boy!
I think we are planing to go to both services tomorrow because Anant can't stay past the worship (what 2 year old does?).
So neither of us will miss it.
Well better go.
Should be able to get some pics up of Derby and Anant in Derby's crate soon.
Mary
Just posted some pics of the shower at Rob's work yesterday. It was really great. Anant was funny, of course. He put
a ribbon around his neck and was dragging around one of the gift bags towards the end of the shower. Funny guy.
Anant woke up once last night and Rob got him back asleep. According to Rob, he could tell the crying was because he
did not want to be in his own bed. Rob got him back asleep and since 11pm he has not woken up and its now 6am. I've been up
at 5:30 since I'm going to bed by 9:30 so I must be getting enough sleep. The aching body says otherwise but I guess the sore
muscles are a different thing.
Mary
Friday, March 28, 2008
I just got done writing to Neha how I forget what God has done for us and am so quick to doubt that He will continue
to provide. Between the adoption process, the transition (though rough not as bad as it could have been!!!), the gifts (that
keep coming), the hand-me-down clothes (thanks Miska, Nancy, Theresa-actually her sister Mary, Jacquie, and Jennifer), the
showers, the Grandmother showers even!! Why do I doubt Him? Why do I not trust Him? Why do I forget? He has been so good.
Now that I write all this down I'm tearing up thinking about all He has done and how He has loved us. He who gave us his only
Son, how will He not give us all things? Sorry God, I forgot. I fear the future because I don't trust you.
Another non-nap day. Anant fell asleep in the car on the way back from a shower that Rob's co-workers gave us. How
nice that was! I did everything I could to keep him awake without getting into an accident; jostling him at every red light,
singing our claping song, tickling him. He fell asleep. And I had to change him when I got home (didn't bring enough diapers
to the shower-bad Mommy). BTW, Amy, the 4's are working better. And, our BM's are a little less, can I say, runny? And a better
color. Maybe it was the diet. No answer back from the lab as yet. Anyway I digress into nasty territory. So, when we got home
he did fall back asleep after I changed him but every time I tried to put him in his bed he woke up and cried. I even tried
keeping him in his bed when he was awake and being there to comfort but not taking him out of his bed. Well, he screamed and
got so terribly upset. I can't stand it. I don't want him to think that we don't care about him. Tonight he went right to
sleep and no problem putting him in the bed. I think he was half awake? Hard to tell.
He was so cute tonight. Check the pics. We got the play dough out tonight and Rob was showing him what to do with it.
He made a bracelet out of it for himself. Then Anant had to have a bracelet made out of play dough. So cute. He then needed
both wrists to have play dough on them. Anant is now saying "all done" and his own name we picked up he was saying lately.
Tonight, while I was cooking (since he insists on being RIGHT there) he was playing with all the things in a drawer and he
was looking into a stainless ladle. We were looking at it and seeing our reflection (actually Rob did-I was trying to cook!).
Anant said "Momma" "Ana". Meaning Momma, Anant. Very cute. Sometimes we think we hear him say egg now too. Sometimes
I wonder how long he had been saying something but I didn't recognize it as such yet. Sometimes it is not as clear but a little
garbled. But he really seems to be picking up quite a bit. We were outside today and have been in the car pointing out trees
to him and flowers. He did seem to know how to group them together. It was cute. So neat to see his wonder. He was touching
a neighbor's plants in her garden and was saying "ow". They were slightly sharp (who would have thought to touch the neighbor's
plants like this-he is too cute and curious). His picture book that Aunt Deborah gave him he is really doing well and able
to pick out the picture when we say the English word. His attention span was great with this tonight. I think maybe because
he is understanding things more. Now he will point to the picture and want you to tell him the word for it. He will often
do this with people too. Pointing at Nanna, then me then Rob, wanting us to tell him who everyone is. It all seems to be going
faster now with the language. I'm excited and get so happy to hear him. He is a very smart boy. And too darn cute. That's
why I'm a big softie. He still seems to prefer us over other people. Even Auntie Sundry in a salwar (Indian outfit) today.
Sorry Auntie, but she knew this was a good sign. Today I was walking out to the car at the shower and Anant started to cry,
HE wanted ME. Then when we left Rob's work without Rob I had to explain why we were leaving. I don't think he understood but
I think he knew I was trying to explain why Daddy (or Momma as he is still referred to as-but hey, I think that is an improvement
over Aui-caregiver, which is what we were in the beginning) was not coming with us. He seemed ok after I explained it a few
times. He gets so excited to see us when each of us is away from him. He runs to us with a BIG smile and hugs us. What more
could we want. Thanks BSSK for your love of our little boy. We KNOW it was your care that has encouraged him to be such a
loving boy. We can never thank you all enough.
I tried to talk on the phone 2 times today. Oh, my, between the dog and Anant, I don't know whose v-mail I left messages
on?! Chaos. And I want more children? Do I? Rob says he doesn't know yet. The chaos can only get worse?!
I looked at the grass that I fight with, or don't fight with, every year in our garden. And the thought came to me, "if
you can't beat them, join them". Maybe we will just have grass in our garden and whatever else will grow with it. We'll just
weed whack it into a good length. Shame the grass grows in the garden and not in the lawn. And this grass has DEEP roots.
Not sure what kind it is (the kind the curse brought!). I know this is random, but still related (its the lack of time and
focus issue-LOL).
So glad its the weekend. I'm tired. Better go to bed.
Long post. A lot happening.
Mary
Thursday, March 27, 2008
No real nap today occurred for Anant. Oh my. He fell asleep in the car on the way home from the clinic at 10:30. This
is the second time he has fallen asleep in the car and both times it has been disastrous. He perks up for nap time. We are
going to be transitioning Anant into his bed now before he is asleep on Dr. Farber's recommendation. Rob just came downstairs
after putting him to bed. Only took about 5-10 minutes! Tired boy. Anant is very grumpy (and so are most of us) when he doesn't
get enough sleep.
I should say (after my last post that may have scared you all to death) that Anant has had an AIDS test and Hepatitis
done in India. Both were negative. University of MN when they looked at his initial medical records said that the Hepatitis
was done too early in life and should have been do. ne later so, technically, this could end up being positive.
My back/neck are sore today. I'll be going to bed early. So tired after such a long and busy day.
I got out for a walk with Harriet and Theresa this afternoon, my walking buds. Hadn't been out with them in a while.
Boy did I need a break. It was good and I felt refreshed for our boy. Its so neat to come home to his smiling face and excitement.
He watches us when we come home from the window and is soooooooo sweet. Thank you God for our sweet boy.
Mary
Well, we went to the Children's Hospital of Pennsylvania International Adoption Clinic today. The doctore and Occupational
therapist we saw were very helpful. The most important things Dr. Farber talked to us about was getting Anant a hearing test
(she said that we need to push this through soon and if there is potential for tubes to do it earlier rather than later),
calling for serviced with the Montgomery County Early Intervention Program (getting him Speech Therapy was imperative the
doctor said). Also, the doctor wanted me to do a calorie count for a few days to see how much Anant is eating. She figures
about 1200 calories to gain weight. She thought we should give him more milk. Said he doesn't need juices because he is getting
enough fresh fruit. She thought probably he would show up with some "bugs" in his intestines. The OT said we should get OT
services as well. We need to work on increasing his attention span and developing his fine motor skills. She suggested singing
songs or doing an activity and stretching it beyond his tolerance by saying "only 3 more" and counting down. She also said
to let him use measuring cups and pouring things like in the bathtub or dry rice and beans to help.
The doctor said Anant has a double whammy with not being verbal in his native tongue and requiring Speech therapy in
India and now being thrown into America with a new language is really hard.
They tried to get blood two times but couldn't get enogh to do the tests they had wanted to do like titers to see how
good his vaccinations were and if maybe they need to be done again. The got enough to do only HIV and Hepatitis. It was brutal.
I sat for the first draw. They heated his arm to get his vein to show up and just couldn't get anything. After the first try
I was done and faint. So, thankfully Rob was there to sit with him for the first one. He cried and screamed and cried and
screamed for I think 20 minutes. It was aweful listening to this in the waiting room. We'll probably try to get the labs drawn
at the pediatritian's office next week on Tuesday when we have our first consultation.
Poor Anant was so tired out that he fell asleep on the way home and then couldn't nap this afternoon.
Another thing that the clinic talked with us about is the bedtime routine and what to do when he wakes up. The most important
thing is that we be on the same page with this. If one of us puts him in his bed again and the other (me) brings him in the
bed with us then this is not good. She suggested getting a little bucket to put his PJ's and a few other bedtime routine stuff
in so this prepares him just about 30 minutes before bedtime. She suggested that we get him used to not being rocked to sleep
because he will insist on this rocking again when he awakens. We were up 2 times last night with him.
The IAC was very helpful. Now we need to work on what they told us.
Things are a little rough right now. Pray for Rob and I as we continue to adjust.
Mary
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Its been a good few days. Somehow we manage to keep busy. Thankfully we got an invite to go to Baja Fresh today for Lunch.
I do get stressed going places. Lugging things and him sometimes. I dropped his lid to his high chair 2 times on the way out.
People were quick to help us. Strange to be in a restaurant with business people when your with your child. Feels like a different
world. Miska thanks for the invite. We always like going out with friends. Anant is a great sport with going out. Its
his Mom who is a mess. He continues to love music and songs. He loves whe I sing "I have hands that can clap, clap, clap...God
has made my hands". He wants me to sing it over and over again. Not sure how most Moms drive with the distraction of children
in the car. Its in the car that I'm singing these songs usually. Somehow we are making it by God's grace.
We played (together) in the nursery during women's Bible study at church after we dropped off our poop tests. Yes,
we picked them up to do them yesterday and did them in one day. He had 4 BM's yesterday. Felt like all we did was change diapers
yesterday. So we were able to complete the tests as we only needed 3 (Anant was most cooperative on this!). He actually seems
to be getting better-even though it was 4 times. Ok, enough on that.
Our Social Worker came yesterday and we told her how things have gone. God has really blest us with a fairly good transition
now that we look at everything. We actually get return affection from Anant already. His tantrums definately have improved
since the beginning. We think due to the subsiding of the grieving process. That was rough in the beginning. Sleeping (although
he wakes up once a night and we go and get him or rock him back to sleep-last night he woke up 2 times) and eating
have not been issues with us. What more could we ask for. I guess God knows we are getting older and can't tolerate much-LOL.
While talking with the SW I realized how much Anant has changed since we first took him home. She said that language can take
a while. But we are communicating very well. She told us that we should immediately check out the intermediate unit with Montgomery
County (for speech therapy and other services to get him a good start for school-early intervention services) which
we will do right after the CHOP international adoption clinic visit tomorrow. They will probably have phone #'s and advice.
Looking forward to this visit. So far the OT I have communicated with has been so nice. I can't wait to meet Amy. We are also
going to one of their family day activities in April. This should be fun and geared to the children which is really neat.
It will also be cool to meet other adoptive families.
Anant loves the outdoors. Yesterday he spent a lot of time outside playing. Hard to keep him from going towards the busy
road (2 houses down). We will get used to turning left to take the dog out and Anant. I did walk that way yesterday after
giving him a lecture about it being very dangerous on the road and that he MUST hold my hand. Not sure what he actually understood
but he did hold my hand the whole time. But Derby and Anant want to go right coming out of the house!!!
It continues to amaze me that so many people have been so generous towards us. We get gifts for Anant almost daily. I
can't keep up with the thank you cards! God has really provided for us as we really haven't had to purchase anything! Thank
you all again for your generosity towards us.
We still have more bills and paperwork with the adoption. Yuck, and I thought it was over when we got home. Well, I knew
it wasn't over but it is still a pain. We have to get fingerprinted and so does Anant. Its very important to finalize the
adoption and get proof of citizenship. Apparently Anant could end up being subjected to the laws of his own
country and we can risk deportation if he commits a crime (not sure how he could do this at 2).
The SW visit is part of this finalization process. We have to get a lawyer and adopt Anant in a local court after about
5 more months and our reports are completed.
Anant continues to be fun to play with and he continues to watch what we do and try to learn things. We think he opened
a door by the knob yesterday by himself and has learned how to take his tray off his booster seat-ugh, what a mess.
Better go for now. Talk to you all soon. Tomorrow should be interesting.
BTW, my resp issues seem to be getting better. I filled the antibiotic but never used it as by day 3 I felt better (the
MD said that after 2 days if I wasn't better to take it). It was hard to gauge as I always felt bad at night and better during
the day. My back and neck are sore but not too bad. I think its from carrying Anant so much. When he wants to be carried I
do it to promote bonding. But my body is so tired and sore by the end of the day.
Mary
Monday, March 24, 2008
Anant seems to get more and more comfortable each day. More and more communicative as well. Now he is using the words
up and down to tell us what he wants that is "up". Which was another Flintstones vitamin, which we weren't going to give him.
He also added to his signing "milk" to his "please" and "more'. He started with the car/truck noise today. We spent time
with Nanna which was enjoyable this morning. Went to get some of our potential post placement report photos for our meeting
with our social worker tomorrow. Pray that this goes well and is helpful for us too, not just a formality.
It looks as though Anant is growing too. Some pants that were falling off of him when we came home are now fitting
well. Also, if you look at the pics I posted today from my Mother's camera from day 1 home we think you can see him filling
out more.
The pampers box has taken the place of the bag. Now we push him along the floor in a pampers box. He is so funny. We
were pushing him back and forth tonight. I pushed a little bit too hard and hurt my back. I don't think this bodes well for
neck.
We will be going to pick up some stool test kits tomorrow. Fun outing. Doing them should be even more fun. I think we
have to get something like 4 samples to test him for different things! Tonight Anant was in a particularly playful mood. Note
to self and others, do not encourage playfulness when changing a poopy diaper. Anant was squiggling all over the place so
I knew it wasn't going to be a good scene. When I finally got the diaper off he grabbed it and flung it over his head. Luckily
I had closed it up somewhat. I'm going to try the size 4 diapers after the suggestion from our friend Amy. It certainly did
seem to fit better tonight when I tried it.
Anant is still showing himself to be very helpful. He helped me put on my sneakers this morning. Tried to tie them by
pulling on the strings and making a grunting noise. In the grocery store he liked to help put things in the cart. This prevented
the continuous screaming when he would see his favorite foods go by him into the cart. The boy is a bottomless pit I tell
you. Tonight he had to watch me cook Dinner. Still not sure how to let him do this safely yet. He does seem to be very interested
in the cooking. I think part of it is because he is hungry.
We are all settling in more and more. Able to do a few more things that normal life requires, like the extended grocery
store visit today. Its feeling more and more "real" that this is our son. I'm feeling more and more like we are "gelling"
as a family. Anant was looking for "Momma" all day. Pointing out the window. I think each time we were going out somewhere
he thought we were going to visit Rob and would keep saying Momma when we would see a man that would resemble Rob in the slightest
way.
Well, better go.
Mary
Sunday, March 23, 2008
He is Risen. Hope those of you who celebrate Easter enjoyed the day.
We were blessed to spend Easter Dinner with some friends from church at Nancy B's house. We counted about 35 people including
the children. Funny to now count 1 of mine :-) strange. I remember counting guests at functions before but never able to count
one for us. Yay God. My heart is so full. God has blessed us so much.
Nanna has been here since yesterday and we are thoroughly enjoying her visit. Anant has taken to her as well. Nanna is
my Mom. Anant has given her kisses! He actually seems to be doing better with adults and more comfortable around them. But...still
prefers us (good for attachment we think).
There was an easter egg hunt today. Of course, being almost 2 and never doing this before Anant got about 4 eggs and
with help. He kept trying to empty them too. He saw about 5 in a little play car and thought that this must be where he is
supposed to deposit his eggs. Surely since there were more there than in his basket he is to put his in the car. I opened
a few and there was a little stamper in there which he had me stamp his hands with until they were covered with blue stamps.
I also showed him the one with the candy in it. Meanwhile all the older kids are getting all the rest of the eggs. I think
next year will be our egg year. Look out older kids, here Anant comes!
We totally messed up his eating/sleeping schedule with not eating until about 1:30 or so??? Then putting him down for
a nap not at his house. He woke up I think an hour later and was so far away upstairs that another child (thanks Lydia!) came
and informed the adults that a child was crying. Actually screaming by the time Rob got there.
It was a very nice time though. I'm so grateful for this fellowship.
I made some chicken thing in the crock pot yesterday. My own creation. Nothing I really like but a can of tomato soup,
can of cream of celery soup and 2 cans of milk. Plus two boneless chicken breasts. Let it cook all day. And, whella! Something
with chicken that Anant ate heartily tonight. The boy really got some protein and some other minerals. I think he would do
well with some beef too (I hope I don't offend anyone here :-O ) to combat his anemia. Soft is the key here. It has
to be cooked to death, whatever the meat is. And flavorful. He did eat some soft turkey at Lunch as well. Giving
the meat helps if he is really hungry. He is more apt to eat it. Of course the snacktrap was available, as usual
all day. Love this contraption. Just checked out the website. They have other cool products. This is my favorite though.
Church didn't work out so well. We tried going to the one service together. Poor Rob had to leave because cute/crazy
boy was getting out of control. What do you expect with a 2 year old. So Rob spent the time treking around the church. I think
next week we will just go to the 2 services and each of us will get go go to one and spend time in the nursery with him as
well. This way neither of us will miss service and we are not leaving him without one of us.
Today Anant was funny. He was pointing to each one of us and seemed to be asking us to name each person to review it
for him. Nanna, Mummy, Daddy, Anant. Then he would point to each of us over and over again. Ah, but Rob and I are still referred
to as Momma. We think maybe this is hard since his caregivers were all women and referred to as older sister (Tai). He also
is really funny with Derby. He loves to go outside as I've said earlier. He gives us little hints. Like bringing Rob both
his shoes, getting out the leash and pointing to Derby. He wants me to put the leash on Derby. Poor Derby, he got walked around
the house by a 2 year old today. Anant would walk to the door like he wanted us to go out with Derby. Of course he had no
shoes on. Also, today he insisted on wearing his thong flip flop sandles that we bought him last week outside. I just let
him wear them with socks. Of course we saw Amy and Rich with Sophie walking by so they saw our situation with the shoes. Some
battles are just not worth fighting.
Well, better go here.
I could use prayer. I find that spiritually, I'm wandering. Worrying too much about finances (we're not in huge trouble
or anything), whether God will provide. But what I really worry about is how do I provide. So...I'm not trusting God. I have
a hard time focusing or nothing sinks in from sermons.
Talk to you all soon.
Going to hit the sack. Will try to post some pics from today tomorrow.
Mary
Saturday, March 22, 2008
Hi All! Sorry its been a few days. There's just not much time with this busy, sweet boy. Things seem to be going well.
Yesterday we got a bunny card from Grandma Kris. He loved it. He did his oooo, oooo, oooo thing that he does when something
perks his interest. We also think this is how he makes a sound like a dog. We told him it was from Grandma Kris and he
pointed to his Grandma Kris book. He made the connection. Today at Lunch we talked with Grandma Kris on the speaker phone
while we opened the book so he could see her picture and put the card open as well on the table. Grandma Kris could hear the
whole Lunch shabang (whether she wanted to or not). The screaming in anticipation (or impatience of a 2 year old, whatever
you want to call it). We hope this helps him to recognize her and be familiar with her when she comes. Speaking of meals,
and screaming. We have been working on "more" and "please" with the sign language. He is taking to it and it is much quieter.
But, we do forget and sometimes refuse to use it.
Oh, I made poha this morning. It was Paddy's recipe from the Holt forum (thanks Paddy!). I made the savory one. Anant
seemed to like it but didn't do well with the toasted dal in it. Although I loved the crunchiness of it. I really liked this
and WILL be making it again. Is it a Breakfast food like this? We also had egg. Anant gets really excited when I make an egg
for him. 2 days ago I opened the fridge for something and he grunted and pointed to the egg. When I took them out he got so
excited. He gets so excited about food (this is fun for a foodie like me). We are still not liking meat too much. We're trying
without much luck. Anant just loves peas! We'll be making more Matar Paneer this week. Made some more paneer with ricotta
cheese baked again. I think it worked better with the lower temperature. I like that Giant has frozen, already chopped onions!
And I like the jars of minced ginger (haven't used it yet, not sure it is as good as fresh-you Indian cooks out there let
me know if it is worth it). We need all the short cuts we can get with making Indian food with a 2 year old around. He has
to watch me cook. I put him in the ergo. but problem is. I can't see too well around him and its not always safe. When
I put him on the back he can't see too well and is hanging on the side which isn't too comfortable for either of us. Any ideas
appreciated!
He saw his first snowflakes today. Not much of a reaction. Walked around a bit and petted a plastic duck someone had
in their yard.
He got a book that plays some childrens Bible songs. He liked this and walked around the house with that for a while
pressing the different buttons.
Tonight we went to our small group meeting (from our church) and he seemed to feel comfortable. He even played with the
kids some. He's a little ham. Of course he wanted chocolate, and more chocolate. I had to sneak and scarf a reeses cup once
becuase it doesn't seem fair to eat it in front of him when we won't allow him to eat any more.
Well, not much to say right now. Plugging along here. Talk to you all soon.
Mary
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Sleep Does a Body Good
Anant had a great day. Other than the time I dunked him in a puddle. I decided that I would got to Rita's to get water
ice at 3:45 or so. Its free on the first day of spring. So I park and get the ergo on and pull him out. Step to the side and
I must have stepped in a hole and down we both went. Anant into a puddle. Half his head dipped in. I was horrified and so
was he. I quickly got up and dried him off and took off his wet clothes (in the warm car, don't worry). I felt so horrible.
He was really crying. 3 minutes later he was doing his little sing songy thing. Mumna-Mumna, Babka-Babka, Lala-Lala, Balla-Balla.
I guess he is ok. Thank God, now that I'm thinking about it he didn't go down onto pavement!
We went to Rob's work for Lunch. Cut up french fries into little pieces and tossed them in the ketchup. Usually when
we give him something with ketchup he eats the ketchup and not the vehicle he used to get it. First time we gave him ketchup
was in India with Rob's cheese toast in Pune. He just kept dipping and dipping. It was funny to watch him.
I made Palak Paneer (spinach with Indian cheese) today. I thought Anant would like it. I don't put the hot stuff in anything
I make Indian for him because I know he'll cough and stick out his tongue and out it comes. The cookbook one of my Mom's friends
(thanks Fran!) gave me has some great recipes (its all Indian). This is the same one that had the really great Muttar Paneer
(Peas and Cheese) that Anant liked so much. I've yet to try the chai recipe in it (I NEED CHAI- haven't made it since before
we went to India-so sad). When I was in Pune and Mumbai I didn't get the "real" chai (with all the spices) that I liked so
much in the North at the places we went to. It was just black tea with hot milk. The paneer recipe in this cookbook is easier
to make than the usual boiling milk way. Didn't turn out great today but next time I will cook the paneer at a lower temperature.
It has you take Ricotta (the whole milk kind-yum) and put it in a bread pan and bake it at 450 for about 40 minutes and it
did make something that tasted like paneer. A short cut. Not having to stir and stir the milk and strain and wait for the
whey to come out. Sorry, I digress. This blog is about Anant right? But Indian cooking is applicable right? Anant loves to
watch me cook too. He usually bugs me to hold him in the middle of cooking so he can watch. I should get him to help, right.
The help with feeding the dog was a bit of a mess today. He put his knee in the food. Chopped the wet in with the dry by himself.
Not a good idea. He makes a HUGE mess on the floor. Derby was licking the floor.
Anant didn't really eat the Palak Paneer. So guess what we do when we don't like a food? We play. Think about pureed
spinach, a two year old playing with it. Huge mess right? Maybe he'll like it the second time around?! Rob had some beef/cheese/pasta
casserole that Josh and Laurel made for us the other night (thanks guys!). Anant did eat some of this though. Rob was excited
of course because he got him to eat more beef.
Anant seems to be a bit of a comedian. He is really funny at the table to eat with (not always funny, like when he plays
with his food and hands his morning egg to us this morning and it goes all over the floor because we weren't quite ready to
catch it!). He does this head rolling thing. Kind of like when you are stretching your neck. But only half way around. He
makes faces and sticks his tongue out. Sings. Did I say he plays with his food already?! Today he played in a diaper box.
Got in and out of it and put his toys in it.
He really enjoyed me playing with Derby this afternoon. He got a real big kick out of Derby and I playing tug of war
with Derby's rubber toy. I was growling, Derby was growling. Anant was giggling with glee. When he gets really excited he
screams. Its really cute.
I got a really sweet kiss before I went to church tonight. He gives the sweetest hugs and kisses. Rob gets them a lot.
Probably because he is gone more than I am.
One of the ladies at Rob's work gave him the little telephone that I think we have all had. The one with the string that
you pull and the eyes go up and down and when you dial it rings? Remember that one? He loved it. He dragged it all over Rob's
work.
We believe that today was a better day because our boy was well rested. Yesterday, if you are reading my blog like good
boys and girls, you'll recall that he only got about an hour nap. The rest of the day was torture for all of us. Today was
totally different. He was so happy and fun. Harriet and Theresa came over to see him and bring us clothes! Thank you Theresa!
Well, like the title of this post. I think I'd better go get my body to bed before I'm cranky tomorrow.
I did finally go to the doctor this week about my cough and endless sickness. The MD said for me to take an antibiotic
(which she gave me the script for) in 2 days if I didn't get better. I think I will probably fill it tomorrow morning as it
really doesn't seem to be getting all that much better. She also told me to take Mucinex. She thinks I could have a secondary
bacterial infection since the illness I had seemed to get better then came back again. Just before I left her I remembered
that I have a bump on my wrist. I showed it to her and she said it is a gangliar cyst (something like that). If it hurts or
gets big she said I should go to a surgeon (oh, no). But she said there are other treatments that the surgeon would do, not
just cutting it out in surgery. Hopefully this will not get better. I've had problems with this wrist in the past and it was
thought to be carpel tunnel. Maybe they are unrelated. Who knows.
Going to bed. Good-night all.
Mary
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Tired Boy
Well, Anant just went to bed about a 1/2 hour early today. I have to admit. Today was not an easy day. It was raining
all day. Didn't keep Anant inside completely. We made it out before 9 am for about 15 minutes walking back and forth on the
walkway and smacking the door where Derby the dog was watching inside each time. When it really started to rain I was able
to get him in. Glad he likes the outdoors though.
Our friends took us to the Smith Playhouse today. Thanks to our parent friends we find out about these kinds of things!
Great place to go on a rainy day. Plenty of toys for kids under 5. Its in Philadelphia for those of you interested here is
the website:
Well, on the way there we had a poop issue. We had no idea how bad it was. Anant started crying so Piper and I started
singing which calmed him down. When I went to change him I realized that this was a major problem. Pants all messed up. My
coat, from holding him yucky too. What did I do. Put the poor half naked boy in the sink and rinse him off. Gladly Dad had
packed an extra overall pants in the bag! We did recover and played in the playhouse. Its really cool, I especially liked
the basement which had tricycles and small cars and other vehicles. It looked like a little town. Anant got on a little animal
of some kind and went around and around. Then all our friends children that were there got on the train that is on the side.
Did get some pictures. Anant seemed to enjoy himself.
Anant ate lunch and then went down for his nap around 1:30 and didn't sleep but one hour and was awake. Ugh! After his
nap he went through a time where he didn't want to be put down and pointed here and there but nothing would satisfy him. This
is really hard. Rob experienced this in India and he does this now and then. Its really frustrating. Hard not to get mad at
him.
Discipline is challenging as well because he throws toys and does things that we tell him not to do. He does seem to
understand but has a cute little smile when doing what we tell him not to do.
Anant had some oreo ice cream cake (provided by Amy and Jim-thanks! We needed that- I'm no stress eater=LOL). Its so
funny to watch him trying things. He made a terrible face and stuck out his tongue. Ahhh but he wanted more of this sweet,
delicious food. He did his sign for more over and over again. Now and then sticking out his tongue like he was saying this
is really cold but good.
Anant went to bed early because he was just really grumpy. We think he was tired. The screaming was aweful. He was a
real mess.
This parenting thing is really hard. We need your prayers to perservere and love this little boy (we do love him very
much) and be thankful to God and dependent on Him.
I am so grateful for Rob, what a blessing to have him back after his day at work. Helping with the dishes and giving
wisdom about handling situations with Anant. Playing with Anant. He is so great with our son.
Put a few new pics on our site. See the link at the top.
Mary
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
New Pics
Just posted some new pics from the past week. Check the link above.
Anant is becoming more involved with his books and toys than before. His tolerance to them is building. He is able to
interact more with them.
Mary
Monday, March 17, 2008
More
Rob told me that I keep forgetting to post that Anant gives us kisses. Rob is the Anant kiss champion though, far surpassing
me. Especially when "Momma" came home today from work. Its really cute. He doesn't really pucker his lips just comes at you
sweetly and touches you with his lips. What a SWEETIE. But what a troublemaker too. Throwing food and toys, smacking us, spitting.
You can't leave him for a second. I guess that's toddlers for you.
I decided not to go to the deacon's meeting tonight since I've been feeling rotten and someone has to stay with Anant.
So I volunteered. Well, all day without "Momma" and all night without him too was not too good. He REALLY missed Rob tonight.
He kept saying "Momma" and looking and pointing out the window. He watched Rob leave in the car. When he saw a neighbor's
car come into the neighborhood soon afterwards he thought it was Rob. Poor little guy. I should have gone to the meeting and
left "Momma" here.
I was reading his books to him tonight. He definately has favorited pages. In the book that Amy and family gave us about
dogs he loves the page where the dog's tongue is sticky and he shows me his finger like it needs cleaning off ("drooly dog
sticks") and he loves the part where "some dogs howl" and I did a pretty good howl so he kept skipping directly to that page
and he would howl too. In his Grandma Kris book he wants to skip to his favorite pages of blowing a kiss and hide and peek.
He went to sleep really fast tonight. Here's hoping for an all night sleep for him tonight.
He tried ham tonight and we thought we had it made when he ate the first piece without spitting it out or handing it
back to us. He makes such a scowl when he doesn't like the new food. MUST GET A PICTURE!! He didn't want the potato or the
cabbage either. He tried an irish potato (yum) but made an aweful face and spit it right out. Then he will see us eating them
and want more. Tonight before bed I was eating one and he wanted some. This time he asked for more and more and more. He is
using some signing. He is getting the "more" sign down pat. I like it much better than the grunting and screaming like he
is starving or something. I think he may be getting the milk sign too.
Oh, and tonight he was digging around in a candle and pulled off a golden "made in china" sticker and asked me to put
it on his forhead in the middle (his usual sticker spot-he's so Indian!). I took some pics, of course you can't read the sticker
but I knew it was there. WHAT A TRIP!
This kid is so fun.
Another thing that is still coming out is his helpfulness. Remember I told you all that at BSSK he would bring the other
children to the caregiver when they were called? Well, he is now doing this with Derby. When we call Derby to take him out
or try and get his attention Anant tries to pull Derby and shew him over to us. He did this with Rob tonight. He is such a
supervisor. He also found a chip in our coat closet door today and made a fuss about it. At the playground he can't stand
to see the mulch on the steps going up to the equipment. He needs to clean it off first before he goes up. It takes a lot
of effort to get him to forget about the dirt.
Whenever I'm doing something he wants to do he will fuss. I was trying to sweep the kitchen today on the sly and was
caught red handed and he insisted on sweeping. Well, I let him put the dustpan down and I sweep it in then carry him to the
trash can to dump the dirt in. WHAT A HELPER!!! He still helps me feed Derby 2x/day and make Dad's coffee. With the microwave
he likes to be the one to press the start button and will fuss at me if I don't let him. He often says Na-na-na when I'm doing
something he doesn't want me to do.
Something he's been saying the past day or so is, in his singy songy way "babka-babka". At first we thought "vodka" (yes,
Mom and Dad could use some dear son!). But no, its something like babka. Really cute. Wonder if he is actually saying something.
Not knowing Marathi its hard to know. It does seem that he is understanding what we are telling him though, which is cool.
Mary
We Made It
We made it through our first day without Rob. By the grace of God. Thankfully, God has provided fellowship for us through
other SAHMs. Nancy B took us to Mason's Mill park today. It is a really nice park that also has a little town that you can
ride your bike in with little "buildings" all around. Also, lots of apparatus for them to play on. It was a little cold so
we left early and went to Giant to get some groceries, and some coffee :-)
Anant fell asleep in the car on the way to the grocery store and even when I got him out he was dead weight sleeping
for the next 1/2 hour to 40 minutes. So, guess who didn't nap but 1/2 hour this afternoon. He just wouldn't go down for his
nap.
Oh, and after talking about the "blow outs" with #2's. Well, we may have found out a way to keep them from leaking as
easily. One friend said, "do you make sure the ruffle is out when you put the diaper on?" Uh... what ruffle? We then realized
there is a right way to put on a diaper. Silly parents! We still have a lot of #2 issues but our friend Leslie I think pinpointed
it to the change in diet. He is getting a lot of things he is probably not used to. Her daughter had similar issues cominig
home for about 6 weeks.
It really seems like Anant is attaching to us as he definately prefers us to other adults and may come to some friends
and let them hold him briefly but then comes back to us soon.
Anant was really happy to see Rob when he came home.
I'm still sick. I've been sick basically since before we left (about 4 weeks now). Getting tired of it too. I felt as
if I was getting better a few days ago then I started with a sore throat and cough AGAIN. I guess its time to go to the MD.
But its likely to be a virus, not sure they will do anything.
Anant has been slowly taking to books more. Now we can actually almost get through a whole book without shutting it.
His favorite book is Where's Spot, First 100 Words, and his favorite one being his Grandma Kris Book.
He is now blowing her kisses when we get to that page where she is blowing him a kiss. His favorite pages are that page and
the hide and peek pages. I really think he will recognize her and be familiar with her when she comes because of this book.
Just like how BSSK showed him our pictures and video. Really cool to read in the book on toddler adoption how this is a good
thing to do since their transition can be really hard for them if they feel like they are going with complete strangers.
Tomorrow Rob will be with us. We will like this :-)
Mary
Sunday, March 16, 2008
Well, church didn't go so well today. We are trying to do as we were advised by the home study agency and not leave Anant
without one of us. It wasn't that he was terribly mis-behaved or anything, its just hard to do. Our plan was to have myself
go to sunday school and rob go into the nursery with Anant. This went fine but when we went to the service Anant got fidgety
and talkative (like uh-uh when he dropped his cheerios, BTW this uh-uh started yesterday and we think it is him catching on
to English, if you can call uh-oh English-LOL). We love our snack trap that our friend's Judy and Craig gave us. Congrats
to them on bringing their William home. We are happy to have more adoption friends. The snack trap is a necessary thing to
have out with you all the time. If they are hungry it keeps them quiet and busy. The food doesn't fall out
but they can get into it. Doesn't keep Anant from trying to dump them out though. I just got cheerio dust all over me and
the pew seat today (sorry!) from him trying to dump them out.
Anant is definately not getting who is Mommy and who is Daddy. I was in the nursery with him during the second service
(he wouldn't dare go in the Mother's room-screamed, so I missed the service). Toward the end of the service he kept pointing
to the door and saying "Momma". I think he wanted Rob and got aggitated until we found his "Momma". He'll get it straightened
out. But this all made me wonder what our full day without "Momma" would be like tomorrow!? We might have to go and visit
"Momma" at the office!
This morning's Breakfast was a bit of a mess. We decided to put his leftover hamburger that he didn't eat last night
in his morning egg. But he was too smart for this. Immediately rejected it. Took one bite later and refused it. He ate a little
waffle but not much. After all this he was too mad and throwing a tantrum so we were done Breakfast early. A little while
later he ate a whole banana though. His Mom and Dad had a bit of a problem because I was bossy about not making him another
egg and not giving him diet syrup for fear of diarrhea from the sorbitol. I learned it would be better to discuss rather than
direct or wait and discuss later. We are already dealing with a #2 blowout issue. (BTW, our Holt friend Leslie said her daughter
had the same issues when she came home for about 6 weeks due to the changes in diet-whew-oh, no, 6 weeks of this?!?) Poor
Anant will be horrified to find that his BM status was posted on the internet some day, a lot of this is for him so that he
can know what things were like for him and more about his childhood.
Yesterday we did some returns at Babies R Us and were able to get a changing pad (so glad as using towels was getting
old and messy), some toys and clothes.
Pray for us as we crunched the numbers yesterday to find that I need to find some work soon in order to make it or we
need some new plans, financially speaking.
This week will be my first week alone 3 days. Its really wonderful that Rob is able to be here 2 days a week for a while.
I said something about the songs and musical toys before. It was funny last night we were getting so tired that we were
reduced to laying on the ground tapping to the music we were so tired. Today, and yesterday in the car I was singing the song
that we sing in the nursery that goes "I have hands that can clap, clap, clap..." and Anant would indicate for us to sing
it again and again. He really likes the repetition of things. Like opening and closing the doors a million times.
With his new toys yesterday came a ball that he just loved. It was small and hard! So...you can imagine that he was throwing
it in the house. We were trying to get him to roll it. He would indicate where he wanted me to stand to catch this hard ball
and it was about a foot from him!!! We did get him to sit down and throw it later. It took a while. We still throw toys and
food when we are mad or frustrated or excited. Just like any 2 year old.
I just put him down for his nap. I really love being able to hold him close for such a long time and cuddle him. It really
gets me to thinking about when he was a baby, wondering what it was like. This little boy has stollen my heart as I know he
has some of yours as well.
Rob and I have kissed or hugged in front of him and its cute to see his reaction, he gets a cute little smile on his
face like "you guys are silly".
Mary
Saturday, March 15, 2008
Just got Anant down for a nap. Singing him to sleep as usual. He was touching my mouth. Maybe he was telling me to please
stop singing Mom, your killing me!?! He didn't scream and cry too much and did look at me in my eyes quite a bit.
Today I finally went to my water aerobics class. Anant was throwing a tantrum as I left. Not because I left but because
he thought I would take him outside by I was going to class. He will go to the parent who he thinks will give him what he
wants. We've figured it out babe, sorry.
Also, I think he is catching on to some English. Not sure what he knew at BSSK. But today he clearly said "up", "down".
He has said ball for a while but it started out as "ball-la". Very cute. Rob had me say the right way "ball" so that he gets
the correct version (no fun!) but he's right, Anant does need to learn the correct way to say things. But it is so cute. He
does say Mama and Dada but he often gets us mixed up thinking Dad is Mama and vice versa. I think sometimes he calls Rob Baba
(which is Marathi for Dad). Ai (pronouced ah-ee) is Mom in Marathi, but when we were at BSSK, Aruna, the child development
worker said that he was saying Tai (thayee) but I guess he just didn't get the th part. So, he says Tai or Ai all the time.
And will draw it out longer if you are not paying attention so he gets your attention. He'll do that with Rob "Ah-eeeeeeeeeee".
Its cute. He will do a little sing song with certain words. Like Ma-ma, ma-ma. Its so cute and I do sing it with him. He does
seem to like music. He likes to press the buttons on his pooh book that has a song for every button and I sing them for him.
He really seems to like us singing and (scary) dancing to music. Bobby and Primila brought a car that plays a song (a cool
rock out song) and we be-bop around. He pushes the button over and over again until we are danced out. Rob got him a little
people vehicle that when you push the buttons it makes a sound of an animal on Noah's ark or plays a song depending on which
button. And we dance and sing and clap. He loves this too and pushes it over and over and over again. We also opened and closed
the back door about 20 times this morning. He likes this repitition thing. He is trying to learn so much.
Yesterday we had a busy day. Primila and Bobby came with Joey. We went to the playground. Anant loves the playground.
We have to constantly watch him though as he will jump off high "cliffs" without a warning. He is a daredevil. There was a
little girl there who wanted us to play with her. She thought Anant was so cute and called him a "slider" because he likes
the sliding board.
We went to the playground after Anant's nap yesterday too. The timing of this adoption has been so great because
the weather will allow us to go out and enjoy the outdoors. I love to be outside too so we should get along well together.
We have been so blessed by friends who have called, come over and brought meals. God has been so good to us.
Reader discression be advised this next part is not pretty. Not to get nasty but we are having #2 bathroom issues. Like
changing clothes due to blow outs. Maybe its the change in diet or something else. We'll have this looked into when we go
to the international adoption clinic on the 27 and/or at the pediatritian on Apr 1.
Anant went #1 on the pot today after his bath. Second time we've tried putting him on the pot. No pressure on him, he
has a lot to get used to.
Mary
Thursday, March 13, 2008
So Blessed
We rock Anant to sleep for every nap and bedtime. We are getting great use out of the glider! Took 1/2 hour to get him
to bed tonight. He was so sweet tonight. He was putting his hands through my hair and bringing it across my face. I love rocking
him to sleep. Just holding him in my arms like a baby. He is our baby. Even though he is almost 2. I sing songs to him while
rocking him like Jesus Loves Me, Jesus Loves the Little Children, and a song we sing at our women's prayer meeting that is
my favorite hymn. I'm told it was Betty H.'s favorite and I see why. Here is a link to the words they are a comfort to me
often.
http://www.cyberhymnal.org/htm/f/a/fatiknow.htm You can find anything on the web. Its great to find hymns like this. And there are more verses here than I've seen in
our trinity hymnal.
It brought tears to my eyes tonight thinking of what a blessing God has given us with Anant.
We had fun this morning at our friend Miska's house with Nancy and their children. Then Piper came with Micah
this afternoon and blessed us with a wonderful meal. I cut up the chicken in the soup so finely and he ate it up.
He is happiest when he has a full stomach. And after this meal he was a really happy camper. He was spitting raspberries (very
wet I might add) and we decided that since we can't get him to stop we will just leave the room so as to get out of target
range then come back when he is done spitting. Not sure if it works well yet. We left the room about 5 times at the end of
Dinner. He was so verbal too, making all kinds of racket.
Thanks to Micah Anant used toys that he never played with before (funny how they show no interest in a toy until other
children play with them). A little posessiveness going on there.
Got some opinions today about the obsessiveness with the kitchen. Our home study agency and our friend Piper say that
we should just feed him. Maybe food means love to him and care. Keeping it healthy of course.
It is hard going from no children for 10 years and now having a 2 year old. There is virtually no "free" time. We went
from having a ton of "free" time (although we didn't think we had a lot before) to having none. The nap time is just
about it. When you start out with a baby, they sleep and eat for a while and you ease into the business of toddlerhood. Not
us. Not complaining, just stating the facts (so you all can pray). We are grateful for Anant. Adopting a toddler has its challenges
and blessings. Like, you get smiles pretty quickly, where babies, they could be mistaken for gas pains. They are interactive
and developing so quickly. I've been reading a book called Toddler Adoption by Mary Hopkins-Best. This is a great book
and talks about these joys and challenges in a positive light. Our home study agency director suggests that we not leave Anant
in a nursery or have him not be with one of us for at least another month. She said we have to work on bonding and attachment
so she said it is too early to leave him in the nursery. Even if he seems "ok".
Still have tantrums. Doubt that will change anytime soon. Like when I don't put his bib on until after we thank God for
our meal thereby making him wait for his meal longer. I tried to take some pics of a tantrum this morning. I felt so mean
but hey, pictures should be honest too right (its not all fun and games is it?). He knows that we pray before our meals holding
hands. He holds out his hands on both sides before every meal, he knows! Its cute.
Mary
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Neighborhood Children
I was taking the dog out today and Anant had to come with me. We met up with some of the neighborhood children and they
were so kind to him. Even the boys paid attention to him (~10 years old). They were all going to one little girl's yard to
play and they wanted him to come. So we did. Anant wanted to go down the slide so he did. One of the girls wanted to hold
him while going down the slide. I let her, and some of the other children were at the bottom to "catch" him. It was fun. Anant
forgot that he wanted to eat.
This fixating on the kitchen still goes on. Anant is his happiest after he has had a big meal. He loves
to watch us prepare the meals too.
Today my neck/back are not good. Hopefully a good sleep will make it go away.
Grandma Kris sent a book today with pictures of her in it that read like a story. It is really neat. Anant looked
at this book like he has no others! Tonight it even sounded like he tried to say Grandma. On the page where
she is playing peek a boo he started to do peek a boo too! It was so cute. I did get pictures that we will share with
Grandma Kris.
I was looking at a friend's blog today from the India Families Forum with our adoption agency Holt. Leslie
is so funny. She recently took pictures of her preschool age son throwing tantrums. I think I'll have to copy
off of her. Just so you all know things are not always rosy and those of you with young children may feel better.
Leslie's blog is a real hoot. If you are interested check it out. Nandini, her daughter, is from BSSK like Anant. She
had a really hard time with grieving but is doing so well now. Here is her site:
http://www.recoveringnoah.blogspot.com/Three friends from our Holt forum are in India now picking up their children and we are praying for them. Some have waited
so long. We are very happy for them.
Mary
Helper
Anant is a great helper. He helps me get Dad's coffee ready in the morning (he presses the button and puts various contraptions
in their places). He helps me feed Derby. This morning he got even more involved in feeding Derby by carrying the food up
the stairs. When he drops some he has to pick it all up. He only dropped about 6 pieces! Also, when Derby gets food outside
his bowl Anant is quick to help him straighten it up. Anant knows when something is not right or not clean. I was wearing
flip flops in the shower in India and he kept coming in (another R rated post-sorry) and pointing at my shoes and saying ooooo
ooooo ooooo (sounds kind of like an owl when you hear it). This is the noise he makes when something catches his attention
(animals or something not right).
Anant also helped me put his clothes in the dryer this morning. What a great helper. He is always trying to help us.
And can be pretty insistant if we don't let him do it. He likes the dust pan and the little broom that goes with it. He helped
me get some dirt off the floor this morning. I brush it in and lift him up to put it in the trash can. Many times... surprising
my back and neck have not been too bad. It feels more like muscle strain then my old nerve pain. This is a blessing.
The grocery store went well. On the way I realized how anxious I have been (not a new issue with me) and prayed
about this to the Lord. I am afraid of not being able to handle things with Anant. I was thinking, women do this all the time,
I can do it with the Lords help. And I can do it peacefully with His help. I made the comment 2 days ago to Nancy B that I
think this could be doable. She warned me wisely that the Lord will continue to put me in situations where I will not be able
to handle things so I depend on him. Well the last 2 grumpy days have shown me that she was right (I knew she was right when
she said it-thanks Nance!).
My Mother-In-Law, Mom Kris, also said something yesterday that opened my eyes to the fact that I attribute way too many
things to Anant being adopted and not enough to the fact that he is a almost 2 year old.
Another kudos to Dad, who, on his big Birthday, used one of his gift cards he got last year to buy his son some toys.
Yesterday he wasn't real interested in these toys but as the day went on he caught on to them. He got a cell phone, camera,
a little vehicle that plays music and sounds (a Noah's Ark), his own alphabet magnets (he liked to use ours which were swallowing
hazards!). He likes to play with containers, putting things in them and dumping them out. So, the empty ketchup container
for the bath, and other tupperwares. He LOVES tissue paper. Don't be hurt if he takes the tissue paper from the gift you've
given him and plays with that instead of the toy at first. The tissue paper we rip up and shower it over him and he us. He
sometimes gets excited and that's when he'll hit us. I think accidently because of excitement. His happy screams are wonderful
to hear too!!! He gets so tickled with the tissue paper.
Well, better shower while I can, Dad just bathed him.
Mary
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Happy Birthday Rob
First I want to say Happy Birthday to my wonderful husband Rob who has been such a great Husband, Father and Friend.
I am so grateful for him. This is a big Birthday for him as it is his 30th (just kidding).
Another grumpy day for Anant. Anant wants to eat (all the time) and go outside and play with things he can't. A
lot of whining and crying and tantrums. He didn't sleep all night in his bed but did have a full nap. Enough time for me to
make mutter paneer. It was so cute. After it was made I gave Anant a taste and he looked at Rob and did his little "ok" sign
that to us means "chan chan" in Marathi (very good). It was a really fun moment. Anant kept wanting more and more. I really
enjoyed cooking. I felt a little more "normal". Cooking has always been fun for me and enjoyable and, like my son, I like
to eat! I feel like we have been in survival mode and cooking felt good. But trust me keep those meals ministry meals coming!
This has been such a blessing. So has the visits from friends. I think of everyone as we use all the gifts people have
given us. We have been so blessed by you all.
The hitting has been an issue today as well as throwing food and toys. Sometimes if I take away the item he is throwing
and hold his hands when he is hitting and show him the "right touch" he does better.
Rob is going to the food cupboard tonight. I think I am going to step out and go to the grocery store by myself with
Anant to pick up Rob's Birthday cake and a few things. I may even show up for Dinner at the food cupboard with Anant.
Mary
Monday, March 10, 2008
Rough Day
Today Anant was very cranky. He did sleep for 2 hours for his nap and went down right away without crying. Not so an
hour ago. Screaming and crying for a while. It just breaks my heart. Its hard not to give in to the crying and temper tantrums
because I just don't want to experience it. We think maybe he might have been hungry. He did eat a good Dinner. He had hamburger
(he needed a fair amount of ketchup to eat it) and loved sweet potatoes. He did eat some broccoli with cheese (before he wouldn't
eat broccoli). He also ate canteloupe which he hadn't eaten a few days ago. Can you see a food theme here? I guess I'm in
the right field (nutrition).
I am so grateful for Rob being here to help out. We made Dinner together. He has been wonderful. He is such a fun Dad
to Anant. He thinks of things to do that he knows Anant will enjoy and learn from.
Earlier when we had gone outside, Anant was taken by the dogs on the corner who bark in the window. I think he would
have walked up to the window if we had let him. He is so helpful too. When you enlist his help to do something like giving
the dog a treat he is very willing to help. He loves to get congratulated and kept picking up the dogs treat in order to get
his accolades. We had to tell him to stop taking the dogs treat so that Derby could finish eating it. Then a tantrum ensued.
Rob played some children's songs for us tonight and Anant just loved it. He ran around smiling and laughing when we sang.
I think he will like music a lot like his Dad.
Going to bed soon.
Mary
Bath Time
This was another struggle. Anant was very uneasy. He especially doesn't like the water going over his head. Today, he
pulled off his pajama top and walked upstairs while Dad was getting out of the shower (you didn't know this would
be rated R for nudity did you-LOL). Anant was headed straight for the bath tub. Well, again, we took advantage of this progress
and proceeded to bath time. How cool.
He was also doing his exercises this morning. Rolling onto his back and holding both feet in the air with his hands.
He must have done this move at BSSK. We are not as flexible as he is and can't do it.
This morning at Breakfast his toast was in too hard and in too large of chunks for him. One thing he does when he is
rejecting a food is hand it to us. We are learning to reduce, reuse, recycle. What may have been rejected the first time we
put right back on his plate. Now, this morning when I cut the bread into smaller pieces and gave him a small bowl of milk
he happily dunked his toast in the milk and sucked the milk out of it and ate it. We saw him and the other children doing
this with biscuits (kind of like cookies but not sweet-I think its a British thing) at snack time at BSSK. It was cute to
see him doing it again.
I found a bug (I think a verly dead stink bug) in one of his toys this morning and said ew and tried to pick it up with
paper to throw it away. Rob quickly corrected me in saying that I need to teach him to like bugs. I think Rob will have to
teach him that not me eeeewwwwwwwww! Anant was fascinated by the bug and showed it to Rob. Then he gave it to Derby and Derby
promptly ate the dried stink bug. Must have been good (BLEHHHHHHHH).
I showed Anant a bruise I got yesterday and he showed it to Dad. I got an interesting treatment and I'll tell you if
it works. Anant took a lego and rubbed it on it. Never mind that after that he advanced to hitting it with the lego (that
usually helps bruises). He is so funny!
BTW, he slept all night last night. The tired boy...
Mary
Sunday, March 9, 2008
Better All The Time
Anant did so well in the nursery today. Dad said good-bye and left for Sunday School and Mom stayed with Anant to work
in the nursery. He did come to me wanting to be picked up a few times and pointed to the door that Dad left from. But he played
well and loved the ball pit and slididng board! He fell asleep during the service and we also went to Lunch with friends.
It all went well, until we tried to put him down for a nap. As it turns out he already had a nap in church on guess who-ME
(albeit just 30-45 minutes-good sermon BTW-it wasn't your preaching Pastor Terry) and he didn't think he needed one. Eating
was also thrown off. So we had a hungry, tired boy this afternoon and this evening. No more sleeping in church for this little
boy.
Some friends across the main road who also go to church with us asked us if we would like to come to their house
for Dinner. This was nice to be able to get out of our house and have fun watching the kids. They have cool toys that Anant
liked (I think I'll have to make a trip to the toy store with some returns! Like the rings and cups). They have 3 girls and
the youngest will be one in a few months. Their youngest and Anant hit it off. We joked of arranged marriages :-)
Anant is not that much bigger than her. They were tickled to see each other and Anant was smacking his belly and laughing
(he had a really bad diaper that required the removal of his clothes so they were both in their diapers). They were so cute.
Rich did get some pics that we'll hope to post soon. We laughed so hard. They were so cute. Our friends youngest also showed
off her sign language. She is so smart! The other girls were so fun to talk to.
Rob took Anant out to kick around the soccar ball for a while. Anant walked back to the front to go back in. We think
it was a little cold for him.
Getting ready for bed. The time change has thrown us all off.
Mary
More Crying and Laughing
Last night I had to opportunity to put Anant to bed. Rob and I agreed to let him sceam and cry it out because he has
to get used to me putting him down to sleep. Rob will be at work in a week and it will be too hard to get him used to it then
and easier now. So we did. That was so hard. He was wailing and flailing for a long time. I guess he got tired of doing this
because he eventually went to sleep. I tried everything from singing to praying out loud. Its so hard to watch him suffer
in this way. But, as we have seen, the first time for anything is traumatic. But after that he seems to get dramatically better.
We'll see after nap today. Maybe I will be the one putting him down today for his nap. Not sure yet what we'll do with his
schedule with going to church as we used to go to Lunch after church with friends until about 1:30 or so. Throw in the time
change tonight and this could be disastrous. Of course he may nap in church like he did last week on Dad in the ergo (or maybe
Mom!?) We'll be discussing this and seeing how Anant does.
Anant is still sleeping but will need to get up soon. I guess I really wore him out last night (I know he wore me
out with the screaming). Also, Rob had a very vigorous game of running around with Anant and chasing him around the room.
Rob was exhausted and we had to deal with a minor tantrum when Dad would not continue forever with this game! Dad's do get
tired. Rob gave me a cheer after Anant successfully went to sleep. We do this "we beat the 2 year old cheer" after doing anything
hard like that. Most of you know that beating a 2 year old is not an easy thing to do. I just wanted to go out of my mind
with the screaming. I'm sure this wont be the last time. I mean the screaming, not necessarily beating the 2 year old. You
definately need Jesus for this!
I'm have nursery duties today at church so maybe Rob, Anant and I will be in the nursery together for a little while
to see how he does. With children he seems to do pretty well. Its adults that he is afraid of and has "baggage" with.
Anant still seems to prefer men and went to one of our friends Prabhu last night. But after having him hold him cried
and wanted to come back to me. Auntie Neha was here the other night and he stared at her uneasily. In time I think as
he realizes we are here to stay and he does not have to be afraid of people we think he will warm up at least to friends who
he can remember.
Anant really is cute when he gets excited about something. Usually it is tissue paper that we throw up in the air or
baloons, although he really does enjoy his toys. He screams in glee and laughs. I never hear him so excited as when Rob played
his run around the living room last night game though. He will let you know to do it again and again. Like when our friend
Prabhu ticked him up his arm yesterday. He held out his arm again and again with his cute smile. Which is also the one he
shows us when we tell him no and he does what he is doing again. Yesterday he was spitting raspberries at me. I tried firmly
to tell him to stop as it was in my face but he thought it was too funny. Good thing I have a hand as a shield! Yuck!
My those storms yesterday were scary. I was praying for all of our safety with trees and such. It got so dark and windy.
We all went downstairs to be a little safer (we thought). Of course, you know who went to the top of the stairs and wanted
to go up there. He just doesn't understand...
Talk to you all soon. Thank you for your thoughts and prayers. Things are indeed going well. Thank the Lord.
Mary
Saturday, March 8, 2008
Unbelievable
Anant, who screamed and cried the first 2 times he was in the stoller, today pointed at his coat then to the stroller
after he got his coat. He WANTED to go for a walk in the stroller. How cool! We were happy to oblige since the rain had taken
a break.
Anant has been waking up at night and crying. Only one night did he sleep through without coming to our bed eventually.
He slept too long last night so the nap was only about an hour. Long enough for Mom and Dad to do some super cleaning. Which,
doesn't seem to do much good since it gets messed up so quickly now. Especially the kitchen floor. We have changed our dining
venue from the dining room to the kitchen for ease of cleaning. I sweep just about after every meal. My how the mess piles
up so quickly with a toddler. I know some of you are saying "yup, that's the way it is Mary". I thank God for the ability
to have a toddler with the mess. Don't let me forget this!
Right now Anant is having snack. Some leftover banana and pear and a little orange, graham crackers and a few cheerios.
He really wants to eat all the time. Its hard for me to set a limit but I'm realizing now that he won't eat much at meals
if he snacks too much.
He and Dad have a new game (Dad invented). There was a large gift bag that Anant fits in with ample room. Dad pulls him
around the room. He gets out and says his "yay!!!" and we clap of course.
I tried to put him down for a nap today. Lots of crying and screaming. This is the hardest thing for me is the crying.
I gave up and let Dad. Anant quickly calmed down. But we will have to get through this hurdle soon and let him cry through
it like the carseat, the booster seat, the diaper change, changing clothes etc. Rob will not be here at home after next week
except for, thankfully, 2 days of FMLA a week for a while. What a blessing to have employers who have these kinds of policies.
Both Rob and I have had different but helpful FMLA/adoption policies with our respective companies. Thank God. It definately
helps a lot!!!
I had Anant in the ergo earlier today and he didn't want to be put down. Cleaned the kitchen floor with him in it. A
little sweaty, but these things can be done. I'm sure lots of you have done it!
Mary
Friday, March 7, 2008
Settling In
Things seem to be getting better day by day. We kind of have a schedule going on.
6:30 Get Up
7 Eat Breakfast
9:30 Snack
11:30 Lunch
3:30 Snack
6:30 Dinner
8:30 Bed
Yesterday Anant seemed to want to eat all day. He kept pointing to our chairs and his at the kitchen table and whining.
I wasn't sure what to do. I don't want Anant to be hungry and not be fed but also know that schedule is also important. Thankfully,
the director of the Holt India Program called and I discussed this with him. He said that since Anant was in a highly structured
environment it would be normal for him to push the boundaries. He is not sure what the rules are. Or it could be that maybe
he is going to catch up in some growth. So, we are trying to add more substance to the meals. A little more fat. Today we
had grilled cheese and turkey on wraps like a quesedilla. Anant would pull out the turkey but he did eat some. He has been
eating chicken and some beef as well. Slowly.
He does have some things that need to be corrected like any toddler. Like putting his toes on the table. Hitting Mom
in the head 2 times yesterday and smiling. Hitting the dog. He does seem to listen more and more to what we say though. He
actually petted the dog nicely today and offered him some Lunch too!! Taking to me more and more. I got a very sweet double
kiss and hug today! I take whatever I can get trust me.
I had him in the Ergo while preparing Breakfast today. He loves to watch what adults do. And wants to do what we do.
Sometimes this is good (sometimes its not-depending on what we adults are doing :-O). I also had him in the ergo so he could
watch poor Dad shave (since otherwise Dad would have had to carry him and shave at the same time! No fun. We also made Lunch
together. I'm trying to think how I will have to do some things when I don't have Rob here. The ergo is a definate benefit.
And it helps us to stay close for bonding too and doesn't kill my neck because the weight goes to my midsection.
Ooops, he just woke up from his nap early. So much for a schedule.
Back again, Rob is putting Anant to bed. Tonight he was especially upset when going to bed.
We have been so blessed by all the visits from friends. It is so good to have adults come by since we have been trying
to stay home a lot. The meals ministry at our church is wonderful too. Don't know what we would do without everyone's support
and prayers.
Earlier today we made a trip out to Miska and Luke's house with Anant. Guess what, no crying with the carseat!?! Maybe
he is feeling more comfortable and trusting of us? We can only hope.
Another blessing. Anant seemed to not want me to put him down earlier today from the ergo. Wow, what a change. Also,
one of the times I took the dog out he didn't want me to go. He's been watching me from the door. Anant likes to look out
the front windows too. So earlier this afternoon I had him in the ergo and we looked out the window together.
It seems that each day Anant gets more and more settled in. Praise God.
Mary
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
A Few Days Home
I'm up early as my neck/back were bothering me last night. I think its from lifting our dog, exlanation to follow. We
noticed on Monday that Derby was not playing and running like he used to. Took him to the vet who thinks Derby has either
a pulled muscle or his Lyme is acting up. So Derby has to be lifted up the steps or to where he wants to go if it involves
steps. Poor Derby. He has had a rough time adjusting to Anant. Anant is pretty much used to him and for the most part leaves
him alone. Derby has been pretty jealous and insisting on attention. Its hard as Derby we have had for 5 1/2 years and do
love him as well.
Food: well, Anant is adventuresome. Yesterday he finally ate some ground beef after about 2 tries before. Nancy B. brought
us some chili the other day and we've been trying to get him to eat the beef and not just the beans. We just keep introducing
things and he usually will try something once then spit it out the first time. By the 2nd or third try he is usually eating
it. Same thing with corn that I put in the kichidi (rice/lentil/vegetable dish common to the area he was living in in India).
Cream cheese was a no the first time but by no means was he going to pass up face painting with this stuff. Yesterday at snack
time he kept asking for more and actually eating it (still face painting though). Crazy boy. He seems to know the routine
of eating together as he will often go into the kitchen and point to all the chairs, we think he is indicating he would like
to eat. Although this happens often!?
Anant has finally slept a full day in his own bed. Dad always rocks him to sleep for bed and naps. The first night Anant
woke at 11 and we brought him in with us. The second and third nights he woke at 2 and we did the same thing. Tonight, well,
its 5:30 or something like that and he has slept all night in his bed. Could have been the jet lag too. Also, his nap yesterday
was short.
Our son has such cute games he make up. Going down steps and then falling on the floor then getting up and saying "yay"
and running to us for a hug, then again and again the same thing. Last night he was playing with Rob and every now and then
would do a double clap for himself. We, of course, join in and clap for him as well. He is a curious boy and wants to see
and hold everything in the house. One of his favorite things to do is to have you hold him and walk around the house and he
will point to things he wants to see and hold. Of course, he doesn't like it when you won't give him the super glue. Tantrums
often ensue with the word "no".
Anant loved playing with a ball that Tom, one of our friends, brought over yesterday. He kicked it around with Dad for
a while and wanted to go out later and do the same.
The carseat and stroller are hard for him as they are foreign. Hopefully he will get used to these soon. He is so used
to being able to be held by Dad constantly, especially in the ergo in India. This carrier is awesome (thanks Sandwich for
the recommendation) as it gives you no barrier to you and your child and you have your hands free. Rob, before the trip said
he wouldn't be using it. However... he tried it and it was a wonderful help for someone who has to hold a 22 lb child constantly
so you are able to do other things like carry luggage :-)
Anant just woke up after a good night's sleep. Always wakes up crying. Poor boy. He is definately adjusting to life here
but it will still take a while. We can tell when he is anxious and when he is safe. His little personality with all the cute
looks (like the eybrow raising one, the toungue sticking out one, and his beautiful smile) come out. Along with the naughty
parts like smacking the dog and smiling when you say no and doing it again. But he is learning to pet gently. We are ALL learing.
We are praying for wisdom.
Thank God for Rob's 2 weeks off from work. Hopefully by next week Anant will be able to come to me more and more. He
still hangs back especially in distress, he prefers to be with Rob. Although, if Rob says no to something and he is crying
and throwing a tantrum, he is happy to come to me for comfort. We take advantage of this.
We realize that Anant is still going through a traumatic experience and are trying to be patient but yet placing limits
and boundaries. We do need your prayers.
Mary
Sunday, March 2, 2008
We're Home
Sorry for the lack of communication. These past
few days have been rough with traveling and adjusting to a new living situation with all the transition the 3 of us are going
through. We noticed that we had some $$ stolen from us that we were going to pay for Anant's visa when we got to Delhi-we
were told they had to have US cash. The thief was a smart one as he didn't take all the $$ just some and he didn't take anything
else other than a pair of earrings. The man at the consulate was so nice and let us pay with CC. This same man helped us get
the visa done in one day instead of 2 making us able to leave earlier. We were able to get tickets to leave on Friday night
and arrived in Newark, NJ on Saturday morning, March 1 at about 5am. My Mom and Nancy S (a close friend) picked us up. Anant
slept almost the whole flight. The people on the plane were so excited and encouraging to us. People just loved Anant. When
we were at the airport in Delhi the man at the counter was insisting that Anant did not have a ticket. He eventually gave
in since I did have a local # I called to get the tickets and they were not open. My confimation # did not work. A very kind
man from Alabama asked if there was anything he and his friends could do for us. This kind of thing happened often as God
placed friends who were kind to us in our distress often to show his concern for the details.
Anant had some fun while we were in India the
last 2 days. He played with a bath bucket and colored pencils, dumping them out and putting them back in. He also would
put things in the trash when asked. Had a tantrum when I said no to him when he wanted to get into the trash can and
take things out. I was still not his favorite person and still am not.
The great thing is that we have seen God's grace
in the midst of trying situations. And Anant is starting to let me in a little bit. Rob still has an extra appendage. Anant
has proven to be a good eater and sleeper. If it weren't for that I think we would be out of our minds more than we are now.
Rob and I have gotten along pretty well. A few bumps but we were able to work them out.
Thank you all for praying. We are so happy to be
back in the US with you all our friends and family and were even able to go to church with Anant today. We thought that by coming
back sooner it would be good for Anant as well to extablish a routine and be settled in one place. We felt bad leaving
our friends here at DBI but they understand the situation. A dear sister there prayed with me and encouraged me
that God will give me what I need to be a Mom and to run to Jesus constantly, this really helped me get through until we left
and will continue to help me. Another sister there came in with practical help for us by moving our room and helping
us set up camp in our new quarters.
Today, Anant started to come to me. He wanted me
to change him twice! He still hangs back some. We were having such fun today we decided to forgo a nap. Bad idea. He went
to bed about 8 and was a grumpy guy until then. He freaked when I tried to move his food around his bowl for him to make things
easier. Bad idea. He is so independent and can do a lot for himself. Very strange getting a child that is older and can do
many things for himself. But a blessing nonetheless.
Mary
