31 Jan 2007: Wrapped around her little finger

Our daily lives now rotate completely around AiLi’s schedule: four adults all dancing attendance on her every whim. Though it’s only been 48 hours since she joined the family, AiLi already has a pretty good idea of what power she wields.

The photos we posted yesterday are a compilation from Monday and Tuesday—AiLi and her nanny as she arrived at the Civil Affairs Office; AiLi in the special outfit made by Auntie Susan; Ira and Karen swearing to the notary public that they will love and care for AiLi forever; Karen interviewing, with the help of our guide Rose, the director of the orphanage; AiLi in her Michelin Man snowsuit walking with Auntie Susan and Great Cousin Marilyn (or is it First Cousin Once Removed?); AiLi eating prunes (the less said about that, the better); AiLi being footprinted as part of the official process.

Yesterday’s trip to the Civil Affairs Office completed the Chinese requirements. The notary gave each family their “Red Book” confirming the adoption is complete and legal. She made a lovely speech about China’s gratitude for the parents’ love and kindness, and stated all the families were now related to the Chinese people, welcome to return at any time.

We all took a stroll yesterday afternoon down a nearby pedestrian promenade, attracting much attention as we went. We were, first of all, among the very few Caucasians in eveidence around this city and, more important, had a Chinese baby in the carriage. Most people we passed were smiling; a number made a special effort to come over and have a look. It’s an interesting (and instructive) experience to be so visibly in the minority.

AiLi has been sleeping well and after a relaxing bath in the big tub and a second restful night (Tuesday/Wednesday), we took her up to the dining room for breakfast in "polite company". Many of the other children were also present. AiLi was very well behaved and eager to eat her steamed egg and yogurt. We then bundled up for a group outing to the Bao Temple, a memorial to one of China’s most revered judges (10th century) and one of Hefei’s major historical sites. While there, we followed tradition, lighting three sticks of incense and making three wishes for AiLi: happiness, long life, and loving relationships and good health. (Okay, four wishes. Ira couldn’t limit himself.)

Tomorrow some of us plan a trip to Huai’nan, the town where AiLi and several of the other orphans were found. Our guide Rose had to get permission to visit this area, about a two-hour drive to the west. We will not be allowed even to drive by the orphanage there, but at least we'll get to see what we believe to be AiLi’s birthplace.

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(Incidentally, if you click on the photos, they will appear larger than life.)

Auntie Susan