Friday, July 9, 2010

Where do I begin??











Where do you start when you haven't updated in a month? It has really felt too big for words. Cai is doing great. She is a beautiful, sweet, funny little girl. Her adjustment has amazed us. And we are so thankful. We truly feel that she was meant to be a part of our family. And like Cate, it already feels as though she has been here forever. Her language is coming right along- she mimics everything, she calls us all by name and follows simple commands, so she is obviously understanding a lot that we say to her. I think her English will take off just as Cate's did. She has bonded very well to us and loves to give and receive kisses and hugs. She is a very loving little girl. She is a great sleeper, she loves the pool, the beach and the boat (yaaaa!) Now, some have asked about Cate and Cai- the love connection definitely is not there yet! They are finally having some sweet sister play times, but usually they are competing for attention or for the same toy, food,etc. And it goes both ways. Cai is equally as competitive and strong willed as Cate! It is really quite funny when I'm not pulling my hair out!








Now, for maybe the not so rosy part! Cai's medical issues have felt very overwhelming at times- usually after a doctors visit. We knew that we would be faced with some, so most was not a surprise, some were. Without completely invading her privacy but realizing this is just part of Cai's life as well as our families life, Cai was born with a spinal meningocele which has affected her walking as well as her bladder and bowel control. These are all nerve related and while we can manage them, there is no "fixing" nerve damage. So, many things we are simply taking day by day. We won't actually have our first clinic visit until August when I'm sure we will have to schedule several scans and tests that probably won't be very fun, but will help us begin a plan of treatment. Even in the most overwhelming moments, I have not for one second doubted that this was the perfect little girl for our family and we wouldn't trade her for the most healthiest child. All it takes is one look into her beautiful face and we are reminded of what a gift she is to us!

11 comments:

Dawn said...

Oh Kim...I was just thinking of you and wondering how it was all going...OK,,,can Cai be ANY cuter...she is truly so adorable and looks so much like Cate to me. I will keep your sweet girl in my prayers regarding her medical issues...God knew the perfect family for her! xoxo

Nicole said...

Kim,
Cai is just breathtaking!!!!!! She looks so happy .I am so glad to hear that she is adjusting to all of the great things in he new world!
There are some days that I feel so overwhelmed with Ava and some of the delays that we have faced since she has been home. Some days I just take a deep breath and regroup. But I too know that I could not have a more perfect daughter for our family. My heart is really happy for you guy's!I will keep sweet Cai in my prayers.
Nicole

Anonymous said...

Oh, I'm so excited to see her sweet face again...she is a gem and I'm so glad you hear she's doing so well...truly amazing. She's such a brave little thing! I'll be thinking of and sending healthy vibes her way as she goes through testing and more in the coming weeks. Hugs!

-jenna

Sharon said...

Kim,
Cai is blessed to be your daughter. She is even more beautiful than these gorgeous photos of her. I love the one of her on the golf cart!

We are looking forward to seeing all of you again soon!

Hugs!
Sharon

Everything Beautiful Shay said...

I am so so happy to hear from you. I am thankful Cai is doing so well. What sweet pics!!! All the girls are beautiful. We are waiting on Article 5 and thing we will travel mid August. :) Ready to get our girl!!! praying things continue to go well for your precious girl!!!
Blessings!

The Greig Family said...

Kim: I loved following your blog when you were in China! Cai seems like one amazing little gal. I have been wondering how you all were doing since the return home from China. Hang in there with the medical stuff. Someday, it will become just second nature to all of you. I'm guessing the first part of learning all about her SN will be the hardest. Love the pics and glad you guys are doing so great.

Nikki

Tina said...

See look at all these comments, I know I am not your only stalker!! hee hee. We miss you all SO much, I am so glad Cai is adjusting so well, and I am right there with you on the sibling rivalry!~
Love ya!!!!

Marla said...

Oh Kim I am so happy to read your update1 how wonderful to see the kids all together enjoying summer!
Marla

Our family said...

Cai is beautiful and looks absolutely precious in the pictures with her forever family. Cai's medical isues may have been a bit surprising to you, but they were not surprising to God. He knew all about them when He led you to her. He will equip you and Greg to handle each and every aspect of her care.

Tammy ~ Country Girl at Home ~ said...

Kim,

Someone just told me something today as far as adjusting that I knew but was good to hear...Where God guides, he provides. I will pray for your family to guide you through Cai's medical issues and to give you everything you need along the way! Luke's SN is waist spinal meningocele too. Email me anytime....this is all new to me too!

Hugs to you! Oh, and Cai is just a beautiful little girl!

Tammy

Jennifer O'Cain said...

Kim, It is so great to see an update on how ya'll are doing. Cai looks so adorable. I am happy to hear that things are going well and pray for things to get even better!

Jennifer O'Cain