We arrived at the Civil Affairs Office at 10 a.m. but had about a 15 minute wait until Kate arrived. We had the joy of watching about six other families meet their new children. All boys except for one!
When Kate finally arrived with some of the orphanage staff, she was very cautious and subdued. She took a toy from me but had no interest in any of us beyond that. The nannies obviously adored her and had told her about us. They encouraged her to come to us but she would have none of it.
The transition was full of struggle and tears, not hugs and smiles. My poor girl finally ran out of steam and fell asleep in my arms. She woke in the van with no tears, so we did a quick Walmart run (shoes, soda, water, chips...) and picked up McD's to bring back. We fed her some fries and nuggets before she started getting tired and it hit her again. She cried herself to sleep and is napping somewhat peacefully now.
Please pray for our XiaoYanZi (we are calling her what the nannies have been calling her). Today has been so very heartbreaking for her, losing everything she knows... Pray she will begin to trust us. She has won our hearts and I pray it won't take long for us to win hers.
8 comments:
What an emotional time! Not what you had hoped for, I know...but God will take care of Kate's heart and give you what you need to help her. So glad you guys finally have her with you!!
I know it was heartbreaking for you to see Kate so upset, but it will only get better. You are in partnershp with God and he will be with you all through this transition time. I was thinking about this at 7 last night when you were meeting Kate, that she was seeing strange people who don't speak her language and she is 3 years old which makes it a little more difficult. I am praying for you all.
Sarah had a really rough time that first day separating from her beloved Asst Director. After that, having Elizabeth around was her first bond. Sarah took really long naps (2-3 hours), twice a day for the time we were in China. She just needed to shut down and recharge. After a month home, her naps shortened to 1 a day, less than 2 hours. Expect long naps. Give lots of hugs...each day will get better.
Oh, my heart aches for all of you! But we know that your family was chosen to become Kate's new family by none other than God. It is gratifying to knw that Kate has felt love and affection during her time at the orphanage, though it makes the transition to you much more difficult. I have no doubt she will grow to trust and love you completely (and her Aunt Marialyce, too :)
I'm emotional just reading that! I can only imagine what you all are going through. Praying for a smooth transition for Kate into your family. So thankful you have God to get you through this!
We prayed for you guys at church and shared what was going on with your spiritual family. Know that you are loved and supported back home. I will post a link to your blog on The City so people can know how to pray!
We love you! Don't worry, it will only get better...
Love,
Kevin and Amy
Our prayers are with you! My heart breaks for Kate right now. I know that God will help her come to trust and love you as much as you love her. Wow, it is hard right now, but it will get better. We're here to love and support you through this journey. We love you all! Give sweet Kate and the boys a hug for us.
Cheryl Whitaker
Been praying for you guys all day. Hope things are going great.
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