Reconnect

August was a month for reconnecting. I took some time to sort through our relics from China and place them in Elijah's baby box. I included foreign currency, his little teddy bear, his name scroll, brochures from places we traveled, and receipts written in Mandarin. I took apart his puzzle and added it too. Though the most important additions were his belongings from the orphanage, his photo album and Gotcha Day clothing. I hope these items will help him reflect on our journey to him and our travels with him, as well as China's culture and heritage. 

On Saturday, August 20, our friends from Ohio stopped by on their way back from Florida. Paul and Angie were part of our travel group in China. They have 4 biological kids and adopted Josie in January. It was wonderful to see how well Josie has adjusted and to watch all the children play.

(To the kiddos credit, this pic was taken way past bedtime)

On Thursday, August 25, I visited with another mom from our travel group. Jaleen was in NC on a business trip from California. We enjoyed burgers, sodas, and donuts while she updated me on her husband Shane, and son Trevor. Trevor's sweet chubby cheeks can compete with Elijah's!

Elijah really loves music, including listening/watching, playing instruments, and singing (especially with hand gestures). Some of his words and phrases are becoming more recognizable. Fortunately this month we've been able to remove the bibs. (Well remove again, as he did well not drooling after surgery but then started back a few weeks later.) Elijah has become even more affectionate, freely giving us hugs and kisses, especially during the Barney song. He and Ethan have become quite the little fish, enjoying swimming every weekend. I hope they're friendship gets better and stronger with each passing month.