China day 11 {shopping and a reality check}

It's beginning to feel like day 11.

Our group was scheduled to go shopping at Liwan Plaza, the local market where we can purchase things like pearls, jade and silk.

It's Chinese tradition to give your daughter pearls for a special occasion, such as her 18th birthday or wedding day. So Andy and I picked out a little something special for Goose.

We had to work for it. You won't find a lot of cutesy pictures in this post. Lucy was not in the mood and neither was momma. I started to not post the photo below because: 1.) It's not an up-close shot of Lucy (which I know is what you all really want to see!) and 2.) It's not a flattering picture of myself!

But I wanted to let you all in on the reality. Just so you don't think it's all rosy and perfect over here in adoption land.

Truth is, we've adopted a two-year old. A healthy, normal two-year old :) Catch my drift?

We're all starting to feel a bit worn down.

This was our hardest day yet. For me. For Andy. For Lucy.

A couple of nights ago, she went from sleeping great to not so great. After a few restless nights, it starts to catch up (but you all know that - especially my mom friends!).

It's nothing new, nothing we didn't anticipate. To be expected, right?

Add to the sleep deprivation all the emotions going on, being away from home, living out of a suitcase, having McDonald's be the only food that sounds good, and going through a major life change. Let's just say momma was kind of a wreck yesterday.

But then there's Lucy. I don't have it nearly as tough as she does. Her environment and schedule have totally changed. She's loving us hard but also testing us. The orphanage staff said she had never been disciplined for anything. The first 2 days with her, I thought it was because she was not in need (I know, I know). But as she's let us in and felt comfortable, she's showing us her true colors, both beautiful and sinful. Yep, she's normal!

So, I say all of this just to let you know we're still doing great. We're being humbled. We're navigating parenthood - just one week in. Your continued prayers would be greatly appreciated. It's an adjustment for us all.

*One of the bright spots from yesterday is that Andy wanted to buy me a beautiful jade bracelet. I just love it. He has been my rock through some tough moments. I could not do this without him.