The First Day

Just a few quick observations from Josie's first day home. It didn't take long, but we are seeing her occasionally let her guard down. We see moments where she is a beautiful little girl, playful, curious, loving. But sometimes she reverts to the scared, unsure child who spent 16 months in an orphanage.

She doesn't like dogs! We are introducing them slowly, but she whimpers when they look at her.

She likes to eat! Everything! I am afraid she is going to grow quickly and my wife is going shopping...again.

She loves her brothers and her brothers certainly love her. They want to help her with everything. They have been awake before she is in the morning and they pace in front of her door to see her. They are so in love with their new sister!

Night time is hard. She needs to be held. I can't imagine what it is like to go to bed every night wondering tomorrow who will be there when I awake. I think she just doesn't want to let go. She has not had a mom for so long. At night she holds on so tight, only to wake up if Kelly tries to move. The slightest movement causes her to tighten her grip. I think she is afraid that tomorrow we will be gone. Boy, is she wrong! It is so obvious how important love is to a child. Kelly is tired. It is as if we have a newborn, but Kelly would not have it any other way.

I can't wait to see what today brings. And, as promised, I will post a few more pictures today.