That is what the girls have been chanting for the past week. We have been preparing them for a much anticipated visit from Marcy since we got the word that they were coming in December.
It has been just under 3 months since the girls saw her and we were lucky enough to have my brother Mark, and my niece Natalie join her this last week. The girls knew Marcy right away and it didn't take long for them to warm up to her and the two new faces she brought with her.
It was the first time that we had been at an airport since we brought the girls home and there was a very noticeable shift in the girls behavior when we arrived. Both Macie and Ella remained attached to Garrett and I while they soaked in their surroundings. It was clear to both of us that after a few minutes of observation, the girls knew exactly where we were and what it meant. Their fear was expressed in tight little fists wrapped around our fingers and big, uncertain eyes, filled with questions about what was going on. We held them close and hunted down the family in hopes of hastening our time there. Within a few minutes we located our weary travelers and slowly approached them, giving the girls time to adjust to their presence. The girls recognized the faces, but reserved hugs for a few hours later.
We are learning more and more that, while the girls are anxious to meet people, they are physically, pretty cautious about touch and physical interaction. The girls did shake hands with everyone, and seemed willing to do so, but there was definitely a need to be close to mom and dad until some time had passed and they knew they were safe.
Mark and Marcy spent the week in DC at a national convention, while Natalie got some quality time in with the girls. Being the great niece that she is, she brought some wonderful toys for the girls and was fantastic about just being with them and watching them interact. The girls enjoyed their time with her and loved waking up to see her face each morning.
We all ventured out to the doctors on Thursday for our 3rd check-up and I am glad to say that Ella has jumped from being in the 11th percentile (for growth) in her age range, to being in the 25th. That jump was in just a months time! Macie is growing as well (although not quite as fast), and we are thankful that both the girls are healthy and their development appears to be right on track!
Friday, Natalie and I fit in a trip the the Baltimore National Aquarium (I had never been). Natalie and I got to explore it while Garrett stayed at home with the girls. It was pretty amazing (well worth seeing any chance you get). We can't wait to take the girls.
Saturday morning Mark and Marcy joined our little clan and we shared a typical day and some time at the park too! We were lucky to have some warmer weather while they were here. I can't tell you how nice it is to be outside with the girls. The cold weather has taken it's toll on us all and we were ready for some sunshine.
Sunday morning I drove our three guests to the airport, sent them off wishing we had more time, and headed back home where myself and the rest of the clan collapsed with fevers.
I gotta tell you it was maddening! The most beautiful day of the winter so far (68 degrees) and we were all inside, bundled up and sucking down fluids and chicken noodle soup. How sad is that?!?!?
This morning we woke a bit better, but still a little off, so today will be another day of laying low. Hopefully, we will all have a full recovery by tomorrow.
Here's to hoping our germs didn't get sent to Seattle with the fam!
Beth - my little guy shows the same sort of sensitivity to people, places, and events that are as you described. We always have to recover by doing some laying low. I love to hear about your daughters - thank you for sharing.
ReplyDeleteHey Beth- I awarded you a "Fabulous Blog' award last week. Did you see it? You are fabulous!
ReplyDeleteYeah to having the whole family together in March!!!!! We have been able to feel almost like we are there thanks to your great blogging. Keep up the good work mama, your both doin' great.
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