Day 7: Finalize Adoption
Our adoption of Tess was finalized today. We went to the same place where we got her yesterday for an interview, signing of papers, and notarization of the papers. The adoption official asked us almost nothing while the notary asked us a bunch of questions about Tess and why we adopted. I think the notary wanted to show off / practice his English. We then went to Walmart to get baby supplies. Pretty slow day which is not bad. We both still feel that we're off a little bit with jet lag.
Tess continues to remain silent but she is attaching to Michelle more. She showed us a few smiles today too (but only a few). When Michelle left the play room this afternoon to throw away a diaper, Tess cried and cried. She is also putting her arms around Michelle and putting her head on Michelle's shoulder now too.
Tess is really small. Size 12 month clothes are big on her (she is almost 20 months old). The back of her head is misshapen. The back of Sawyer's head is really flat. Presumably, from his hard mattress and no pillow. Tess's head is really flat on one side of the back. With her crew cut, it really stands out. Her muscle tone sure looks poor too. She continues to scratch and scratch herself too - even in her sleep.
Tommorrow we go for Tess's visa photos and her medical exam. The US Consulate has been having some troubles with their computer system this past week and some adoptive families have had to delay their departure dates. Typically, you leave immediately after getting the visa so a delay is pretty inconvenient. After being here 16 days, you are ready to leave too. We hope we don't get delayed.
Tess tried watermelon, canteloupe, hash browns, eggs, PB&J, banana, fish, french fries, chicken, and ketchup today. Watermelon, bananas, and ketchup were her favorites. When she does not want something she turns her head hard to the side.
View of Guangzhou from the adoption building.
Shopping at Walmart.
Tess wants to be held and carried most of the time. When she walks, she only walks for a few minutes.
