Is that Grandma I see?

I am so tired that I'm seeing dead relatives (some that I don't even like very much).

It was really nice for Frankie J that Cody came home for the weekend, but it turned out to be pretty rough on me. He is such a good Daddy that she had absolutely no desire to stick to our regular nap time routine. When it's just me, she goes down usually without a problem--when Cody is home she goes down, but pops right back up looking to party. I felt like I was playing with a "Jack in the Box."

The middle-of-the-night-wake-up-crying was the worst though. We're stuck in that weird place of "do we let her cry it out, or do we continue to foster attachment and go to her?" Cody wanted to let her cry it out but I just can't do it. Oh no...don't go thinking I'm so nice that I can't bear to hear my little girl upset, no...no...I can't do it because I CAN'T FREAKIN' SLEEP WITH ALL CRYING AND SCREAMING GOING ON!

In truth, there is a part of me that thinks we should continue to go to her for at least another month, then it will be 3 months that she's been with us. I'm just not ready to let her cry for too long yet. However, believe you me, faithful readers--when that day comes in one month, I'm going to buy her a baseball and a mitt because you know we gonna play some hardball. Oh yes, Ms. Frankie Jade, your days of room service are numbered. Yo mama needs her sleep!

Of the four food groups, where does chalk go?

Frankie and I had TWO knock-down-drag-out fights yesterday.
She won both.

The doctor was stressing me out the other day about brushing her teeth. I know I'm supposed to brush them after she has milk. I know they will get nasty if I don't. I know I'm a sucky mom because I need a break from making her do new things so I have been letting it go...I know, I know...but OK, you know what? YOU BRUSH THEM.

Since this kid has been adopted, I feel like we've had to get her used to so many foreign things and she's finally at a point where's she's over most everything: We're good on the car seat issue, the high chair issue, the stroller issue, the bottle issue, the formula issue, the bath issue, the clothes changing issue, the grocery cart issue, and almost all other issues she has had to contend with since being adopted...and you know what? You may find this hard to believe, but I really haven't stressed out too much about anything--except the bottle thing in the very beginning. Other than that, I figure everything will happen when it happens, but the teeth brushing thing...well that just isn't going to happen. That is something I have to make happen, and as far as Ms. Frankie J is concerned--it ain't happening.

I don't really know why she hates it so much, but she really hates it. The crying is scary, and annoying because, Hello??? I'm just trying to brush her teeth. OOOOOOOOH. Child abuse.

Fight #2: Water.
The doc also told me the other day that she's supposed to be getting 4 oz a day. To that FJ says: "WHATEVER with your 4 oz a day, Dr. Blah Blah--water sucks." She's not into water. What can I tell you? I figure she'll grow more accustomed to it as time goes on, but in the meantime, she will not be placing many orders for it.
I have tried various temperatures
I've tried all different kinds of sippy cups and bottles
I've let her drink from my water bottle and glass
Yes, to everything...
She'll do a little bit of everything, but there is no way she's getting through 4 oz a day. My next move is to put her in front of Floyd's water bowl to see how that works out.

So, what about the chalk episode?
I put Frankie in the car for a quick trip to Barnes and Noble. I noticed nothing unusual as I strapped her in... until I did something that made her smile. As her lips started to part, this crazy fushia colored drool started coming out of both sides of her mouth. It was kind of scary (though strangely pretty at the same time--I wish my drool was fushia!) Anyway, I started to freak out, threw out a big "What the HELL-lo??" pried open her mouth (insert crying here) and pulled out little pieces of what appeared to be... you guessed it: chalk.
Gross.
Kids are freakin' gross.
I mean, who eats chalk? It's not even good.
But, other than a very cute outfit ruined--no real harm done.
At least none that I can see so far. :)

Reality Check in Floyd's Food

I think the sleep deprivation has finally caught up with me:

This morning I poured Floyd's water into his dog food instead of his water bowl.

Even he looked at me like maybe I had lost it a little.

Thankfully, he is a non-judgmental dog.

Vaccination Day

Frankie had her vaccinations today. The China paperwork we received claimed she had them all, but we had heard that sometimes they "water down" the vaccinations to make sure they have enough for all the kids in the orphanage, soooooooooo we had a "Titers" blood test drawn 6 weeks ago to make sure. It turned out her tank was on empty when it came to the Chicken Pox vaccination and the Prevnar vaccination.

Side Note: Since when is there a Chicken Pox vaccination? I thought it was a rite of passage for kids to get the Chicken Pox! Chicken soup and calamine lotion, missing school and watching daytime TV, itching and scratching --hello???? No more of that?

Anyway, Frankie J (who is now up to 20lbs) was a champ. She really was. I, however, was thinking that it might be a good idea to leave hot pokers in the waiting room so the parents could put them in their eyes during the process. That might hurt less than watching your girl do the "scream-cry" while being held down against her will.

I do believe that my friends who said it would "hurt you more than it will Frankie" were right though. I was crying right along with Frankie, but I think she stopped first. How about this though? My mom was crying too! (She came with me since Cody is at camp). She said it brought back memories of me getting my shots all those years ago.

I guess it just never ends... Great. SU-PER.

Frankie is working her way up Henri Bendel...

...by starting at Saks.

Tonight we met one of Frankie's "Aunts" for her birthday dinner at Somerset Mall. We went a little early so we could hit Saks on the way--(I mean, as long as we're there...right? It's like blasphemy NOT to go, don't you think?) It was Frankie's first time and she made herself quite comfortable in moments- oh yes, my girl was in her element. I was only so mad at myself for forgetting the camera. The spring and summer clothes were on display, everyone was going ga-ga over Frankie, and all was right with the world.

As we drove home after the hustle and bustle of Saks and the salads and chocolate cake at J. Alexanders, I couldn't help but think of the very scary and very major earthquake that hit China today (not far from where Frankie is from). I also couldn't help myself from telling my daughter how lucky she is. I'm sure it won't be the first time. I don't think she was listening-- I'm sure it won't be the first time for that either.

PS. The photo above is not from tonight. I just like it because I want to bite those cheeks so badly! (She's sleeping right now... otherwise, trust me, I would).

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY

This year, for the first time ever, people started forwarding "Mother's Day emails" to me. Of course, I have had no time to read them because since Sunday night I have been on my own with Frankie and Floyd.

Yep. Just me. Just me, Frankie and Floyd Coden. That's it.

No Cody--he's at camp.

How did we do? I think we did OK. Here's how it went:

We were at camp for the first time last Thursday-Sunday to spend the weekend as a family before leaving Cody there for the summer. It was a great weekend. The ride up, however, SUCKED.

Cody left early Thursday morning and we left several hours later. I didn't know what to expect, and for the first hour-- it was great. Frankie was sleeping, I was jamming, and Floyd was just breathing hard. Floyd knows I-75 means "camp weekend," so he pretty much breathes hard 75% of the trip. He then allots 20% of his time for this annoying type of dog whimper that means that he wants to bark but knows I will kill him if he does, and the other 5% is allotted for the actual barking he slips in for major occurences like really big trucks or other dogs. Those of you who have had the pleasure of a ride up to camp with me know what Floyd is like in the car. It's...well...it's an experience--but I'm used to it and it was fine. We were doing fine.

Until Frankie decided to wake up.

She woke up crying. NOT FUN. It wasn't too loud at first, but it quickly ascended into simultaneous crying sprinkled with screaming. Then the screaming took over and the crying started to dissipate. Of course, that's when a car with a big dog pulled up in the lane next to us so then I had crying, screaming AND barking.

SWEET DRIVING EXPERIENCE.

After about 20 minutes of the "PLEASE KILL ME NOW" symphony going on in back, I pulled over, calmed everyone down, did a few shots of Tequila and got back on the road. (Just kidding about the last part).

We finally made it to camp and everyone just breathed. It was so nice to be back Up North. There really is no place like it, especially Camp Tanuga (shameless plug). Floyd was happy to be back with his buddies on a zillion acres of land and water (wet dog--YUMMY), Cody was ready to get a jump start on the season, and I could R-E-L-A-X. Frankie basically drooled and smiled all weekend. I honestly don't think she ever stopped smiling except when she was crapping her pants, and even then, through her contorted, red face of sheer determination, there was a faint smile of accomplishment.

This is how our weekend went: We ate, we hung out, we spent time with good friends, we read magazines, we ate, we played, we ate, we walked, we ate, we shopped, we ate, we hung out some more, ate some more, shopped some more, rinse and repeat. It was a stellar weekend.

But then we came home, without Cody. It was just US.

I had some help on Monday and Tuesday until 3:00, so I could go to work, but from Tuesday at 3:00 until Friday at 3:30, it was just us until Cody arrived for the big Mother's Day weekend. (Ok, Ok, one of our friends, Mr. Brian Aaron, who is more like family, came by for about and hour and half on Thursday so I could shower and do a little work without interuption-- but other than that--yeah...JUST ME).

I actually think I had most everything under control. I even thought I was doing fairly well and I was having a lot of fun (except when Frankie cried, which is--thankfully-- not often). I managed to stay on top of the laundry, the bottles, the meals, the feeding, the changing, the diapering, the baths, the moods, the spit, the "this," the "that," and all things Floyd.

I really think I did OK at the single mom thing. It's the single mom thing mixed with the working-full-time-at-home-and-at-the-office-while-doing-all-the-Mom-stuff-thing that is not so easy. I felt that Frankie was only getting 50% of me and work was only getting 50% of me, but I must say, I had a killer week at work and Frankie seems happier than ever, so I must have done something right. Right?

Now Cody is home until Monday morning and it's Mother's Day weekend. (Please note that I am making him do pretty much everything while he is here, but whatever--he is awesome at it and he missed FJ like crazy).

We survived our first stint of the summer without Daddy and yes, I miss sleeping, and exercising, and showering, and reading, and breathing...but I can not believe how much I love being a Mom. I love being a mom to Frankie. I think she is just the coolest kid ever. She's fun and funny and changing every day. It's all happening so fast. She's already growing out of some of her clothes. What is that about?? She has only worn some of the things once, and others not at all!! Plus, I swear, her cheeks are also getting bigger, it's the craziest thing--it's like someone shoved a tennis ball on either side of her mouth. I think she is hiding furniture in those things.

I absolutely love being a Mom and I'm excited for my first Mother's Day. Plus, I know we're going to have a fun day tomorrow and I get a present because "someone" sent Cody an email link (anonymously, of course) to a great gift idea for me.

This is a very important weekend to all the Mother's out there and though I haven't had the time to read all the forwarded emails this week, one of my close friends brought one to my attention so I gave it a quick whirl. I'm glad she made me read it, though I didn't get much farther than this line: "This is for the mothers who gave birth to babies they'll never see. And the mothers who took those babies and gave them homes."

That line hit home and I knew why she wanted me to read it.

I'm sad for the woman in China who gave birth to Frankie because I know it couldn't have been easy giving her up. I won't assume that anyone reading this knows what is currently going on in many parts of China, Child Labor Rings Reach China's Distant Villages , and I don't know what would have happened to Frankie if the woman who gave birth to her didn't give her up, but I have to believe that she has a much brighter future here with us.

I hope that brave woman all those miles away can sleep safe with the knowledge this Mother's Day that her child is being mothered with all the love there is to give. Admittedly, this Detroit Mama may not know what the hell she is doing, but she's doing her best.

I hope she knows Frankie is safe, loved and getting chunkier by the day--and to her I say "Happy Mother's Day" because she was a good mother for letting Frankie go.

And to all you mother's out there-- I say "Happy Mother's Day," to you because I know you're good moms too. But not as good as me, because I'm freakin' awesome.

Just kidding.

I'm totally clueless. I just thought I'd end on a light note.

XO

Coden Club Med--Detroit

I have been staying at the Coden Club Med in Detroit for about a month now so I thought I'd send a postcard to ya'll. I must say, it is very awesome here and the accomodations are first rate. I get fed everytime I turn around (and not just crappy baby food--they give me good stuff too). I get bathed, massaged and lotioned...toys are everywhere, closet is full and I'm totally into the dog. I love Floyd, he is my fave. I am livin' like a rock star in this joint and Mommy and Daddy are essentially my slaves. They come when I cry, wipe my butt when I poop and shove a bottle my way about 5 times a day. Rock ON.

I'd also like to say that I'm done crying about everything. It was beginning to bore everyone so I decided to just let go and enjoy the ride.

I'm done being upset about the car seat, now I jam in the car with Mommy. I think her voice stinks but I let her sing. When I'm able to talk I will tell her to "zip it." Until then, I am learning many new English words from Eminem so keep bringing the tunes, Mamacita!

I'm done being upset about the stroller, but I have noticed that Mommy gives me these gerber treats that she calls "baby crack" when we take Floyd for a walk. I wonder if she does that to shut me up. There was this one time we were walking I cried the whole way home and everyone in the neighborhood heard me. I'm much happier (and quieter) with my treats, but I'd probably be OK without them. I'm not going to argue with her though--they're good and she's buying.

I'm done being upset about the high chair. IT RECLINES. It would be nice if they understood that "bababa..ba...ba!" means get me the remote, unbutton my jeans and put on "American Idol," but again...when I learn to talk...

I'm done being upset in the shopping cart. Yes, I had a few freak outs, I admit it. One time (oh this was great)...One time I had such a freak out that some random lady asked Mommy if she "needed help." YES! All because of me! It was hilarious. I almost stopped crying to laugh, but don't worry, I didn't. I kept crying. Now Mommy uses this pink thing for me to sit on and it's really comfy. I don't cry anymore--and if I start, she shoves one of the "baby crack" treats my way. It's a win-win. You know me: First Class Frankie all the way, baby!

I'm done being upset about pretty much everything. It's hard not to be happy here. I even wake up happy. They're trying to get me into a routine but I fight them on naps. Do you blame me? Turkey, Cheese and Cheerio All-You-Can-Eat-Buffet on the Lido Deck-- Laughing Learning Toys on the Fiesta Deck. Too much going on here--no time for naps!

Sometimes I sleep all through the night but not usually. I was having some really bad night tremors for a few nights, but the "google freaks" I live with got some info online and they seem to have cured me of those, at least for now. Now I just wake up when I want to party or when I have a diaper full of pee. Wouldn't you? "Hello??? Housekeeping? Please come and change my diaper!"...and one of them always comes. Didn't I tell you? First rate.

I went from not crawling or sitting up to doing both in one day. Save it, I already know that I'm brilliant.

Something else I learned...I'm Jewish. Yeah, they threw that one at me right before Passover. I'm ok with it though. There are no presents on Passover, but the food is really good. On the night of the second Passover Seder, I got to sit at the head of the table and the food kept coming and coming. At one point I was stuffing my face and crapping my pants all at the same time! Jealous? We Jews sure know how to party...

I also had my 1st birthday not too long ago. Mommy and Daddy took me for Chinese food. They think they're SO funny....

They had a very small birthday party for me at the house (I am still a bit overwhelmed by large crowds) and I think I did pretty well. I am much more comfortable with smaller groups but my Mommy says that is OK because she is like that too. Not only do we look EXACTLY alike but it seems we are alike in other ways too!

I got my first taste of cake at my birthday party. They gave me a humongous cupcake. Mommy and Daddy were a little skeptical of how I would react because I always push away pears, applesauce, bananas...anything sweet, but let me tell you, after my Mommy took off my shirt and let me go for it-- I DESTROYED THAT CUPCAKE. Again, I am my mother's daughter--good match China people who matched us! Poor cupcake didn't even see it coming. I tortured it. I ruined it. I made an example of that cupcake and all other cupcakes better beware. I needed another bath when my parents finally tore me away. Don't worry, before Daddy whisked me off to the bath, I told the remains of the cupcake to heed my warning...I WILL BE BACK.

All in all, I have to say I'm rockin' in D-town. We're leaving for Daddy's camp on Thursday. Mommy's freaking that I need new clothes for that place. WHATEVER--that lady loves to shop, Daddy I and just roll our eyes at her. She's already shopping for a new kid, talking about getting some kid from some place called Sierra Leone so he doesn't become a child soldier, or I think I even heard her mention she wants a girl from India so the kid doesn't get sold to a brothel. What's the deal? Freakin' Joliewannabe in da house! My Daddy and I both think she's nuts but he just says "Ok, honey" and I say: "Iye Yay Yay!!!"

Hope you're all doing as well as I am!

FJC Out!

We made it!

We're home!

Ok, let's see....where do I start? Oh, I know--how about the night before we left for the airport to come home? THAT WAS A FUN NIGHT! Since we had a 4:00 a.m. wake up call to get to the airport, I figured I would go to sleep at 10:00, Cody came in about 10:30 and all hell broke loose. Frankie decided to scream bloody murder (for this I blamed Cody, of course) and she was pretty thorough about making our lives miserable for the rest of the night...probably because she knew we needed to be up so early. From what Cody says, she finally went down around 2:30 and we woke her up at 4:00. Well, there's a night I hope I get to do again soon (NOT!)

When we got our act together, we schlepped over to the GZ airport with The Simpson Fam and Peter. It was raining (of course, why wouldn't it be?) and yucky out. All went well at the airport and we got on our first flight: The GZ to Tokyo flight. IT SUCKED. Frankie was in full-on Crankie Frankie form. Don't get me wrong, I didn't blame her, I just wanted her to zip it. I am pretty confident everyone on the plane hated us. We were in first class (thanks, Cody--I know we're broke) but even that wasn't enough for FJ. Thankfully that flight was only about 4 hours and we made it to Tokyo.

Tokyo airport: Beautiful...Love it. Beautiful girls and hot guys working there. (I know, I know...I usually don't go for the Asian guys, but there were some hot-tays working the Tokyo airport!) Also, I would like to add that the female airport outfits are really cute--they wore these great scarves, I wish they sold them there. Insert lots of security checks, many tedious lines, and a crying baby and you're in for a super fun day. We finally got on the plane and I knew the worst was over. Even if FJ cried for 15 hours, I didn't care. We were in FAT ASS first class. (Again, thanks Cody...YES, I KNOW WE ARE BROKE). We had a few of the same flight attendants from the trip to Tokyo and they remembered us. They were dying over Frankie. Once she figured out she was in high class, first class--she made herself REAL comfortable. We promptly started calling her "Frankie First Class."

I have to say, she did really great and that's a long flight for anyone, even for people our age who don't poop in their pants anymore. We got comfortable and the food, drinks and snacks kept coming. It was awesome. The chairs reclined all the way back so we actually got a little sleep. Cody made a little bed for Frankie on his lap and she even fell asleep a few times. The best is that each seat had its own TV and Cody found Baby Einstein for Frankie. I wish you could have seen her. It was hilarious. I thought she was going to try and GET IN the screen at times.

She had one teeny crying episode on the plane and that was it. The funny thing is, one of the guys sitting by us was sleeping and she woke him. He gave me a dirty look because, apparently, now I am "THAT mom with the annoying, crying baby," and he is "THAT guy who paid a fortune for his first class seat." Well, what he didn't realize is that I am "THAT mom with Frankie Jade Coden as my crying baby." When the flight finally landed several hours later and we were all gathering our luggage, the same guy had to get his bags which were over by us. "Frankie First Class" landed a raspberry on him that was not to believed. It was legendary. That's just how my girl rolls. Who loves her?

We finally made it to D-Town and did the immigration/customs thing (for the 100th time) and Miss Frankie Jade Coden, the Asian Sensation, got her stamp of approval and become an American Citizen. We got our stuff, found my mom and Jimmy, (who were waiting with a "Welcome Home" poster, balloons) and we got the hell out of dodge.

Could we have been more tired? I don't think so. We were, however, so happy to be home and we were very excited to see Cody's parents and my dad who were waiting at the house. Plus, I could not WAIT to see Floyd.

Now, I have been really good about not doing shout outs for people on this blog, but I must recognize a few who really went crazy for our homecoming: Michael Nagler, Nancy Clark and Debbie Michelson--we LOVE you guys. Our house was (and still is) decorated in such a way that Nate Berkus would have been proud. (I can NOT believe I just used an Oprah reference). The signage is amazing and the balloons are way fun. I still smile everytime I walk into a room that has been decorated by you guys. Thank you and we all love you.

So, what's it like being home?

It is different everyday.

We are totally winging it. I will say the jetlag is really a killer. I had no idea what we were in for. Our days are nights and our nights are days. It's bad enough for us, but trying to get FJ on a schedule is just brutal. We just recently found out that the jetlag is supposed to last 2 weeks. Well, after 4 nights of no sleep, or the nerve racking kind when you just start to drift and crying ensues, Cody let me sleep in our room while he slept in the guest room. We are now doing "nights on" and "nights off" switching every other night so at least one of us sleeps. Whoever sleeps in the guest room (by Frankie's room) is on duty. The other person is on the other side of the house in our bedroom. I hate not sleeping with my husband, but sleep is GOOD.

As for the 2 week thing-- I think we can beat it. I have no patience for that. 2 weeks with little to no sleep? Um...NO. NEGATIVO.

Some new normals for us:

Dinner is at 6:00

Bedtime is at 9:00

Should we just buy our condo at La Boca Vista and go for our early bird special now?

We are learning more and more about Frankie Jade every day. We have found that the first few times she tries something new, she is not into it and the crying is very dramatic (and sometimes quite impressive) Strollers, high chairs, rockers, car seats (especially car seats) ALL BAD. Does it matter that she has high-end EVERYTHING? No, it doesn't. Is there anything good enough for Swankie Frankie? No. Jeez....she is tough.

We are very slowly bringing in new people for her to meet. For now, we are mostly family because when it gets to be too much, the fingers go in the mouth, the smile ceases and she just shuts down. It makes me sad when that happens because she is so much fun normally.

She LOVES Floyd. I was really worried about that but she LOVES him. She had a really bad day her first full day home, uncontrollable crying for most of the day, and at one point I found Floyd running over to her and just sitting with her while she was wailing. At that point, I even broke down and started crying--it was really that cute. He is not really a barker, but when he does, she is not bothered by it. The car seat is the enemy though--go figure. Women.

We love her more everyday. She is really very cool and very funny, and it's exciting to see her becoming more and more "our kid" as the days pass. (That must be why she is so awesome, right?). Cody is the best dad ever and she goes ga-ga whenever she sees him (I do too, so I get that).

I can't wait to get into a normal routine and on a schedule but I know I have to be patient (NOT my strong point).

Let's see what else?

• Motrin is my friend
  
  
• Cloth bibs are way more comfy (and effective) than the vinyl ones



• I feel like I'm constantly "cleaning up."


• Cheerios are not for eating, but for throwing on the floor for Floyd


• Taking Frankie's hand to her foot is really funny (we're still not sure why but we love hearing her laugh)
  
  
• Sometimes poop is so powerful that it can't be contained by any one diaper. It just has to ooze out of the sides


• "Bling" rules and it's great for pulling and tugging
  
• Frankie Jade smiles could end tension in the Middle East--they are THAT cute
• Getting up at 3:00 a.m. to a kid who wants to play for 2 hours is fun ONLY for HER.
  
• Anyone who said Floyd would take a back seat was wrong. We love and need him more than ever.


• Showers that last more than 37 seconds are...well, they are pretty much non- existant


• The Laughing Learning Dog toy is the best invention, second only to disposable changing pads ("Go Green" on everything else--fine, but please don't deny me the disposable changing pads)


• Everything smells like poop. YOU will smell like poop to me


• E TV and VH1 have been replaced with Playhouse Disney. I now know some of the songs by The Wiggles. "We're doing the Flap now..." Yeah. Uh huh. ROCK ON.


• Grandparents rule--especially Frankie Jade's grandparents.
  
• Even though bath time is supposed to be "clean," it can prove to be very messy--and wet!



• Sometimes formula burps smell like they come from the back end instead of the mouth.


• Baby food sucks but paper tastes good


• White socks and shirts are stupid for an 11 mos old, but yet I keep buying them. What does that make me??


• When Fray J wakes up with a smile on her face, it makes the long nights a distant memory...almost.


• 9:00 p.m. is the new 11:00 p.m.
  
• I am STILL in desperate need of a manicure
  

Thanks again for coming along for the ride. I know the journey is just beginning and I hope you stick around even though we might not get to see you right away. We're so happy to have you in our lives and I know each and every one of you will make Frankie's life very special in your own way. As for me, I think I smell another poop...Where's Cody???

Love you all,

R, C and Fray J

Farewell, China!

Last day! We leave at 6:00 am tomorrow morning for our flight to Tokyo so I'm thinking this might be our last post, at least in China.

Little Miss Asian Sensation had a party here last night. She woke up crying around midnight looking for a diaper change and the all-you-can-eat-midnight-buffet. We fed her, changed her and hung out with her awhile (we have to, right?) and finally she gave us a break and went back to sleep. I noticed today that the dark circles under my eyes are turning a fabulous shade of blue, unfortunately the color is not so great ON MY FACE.

After our last breakfast buffet today, we took the "Red Couch Pictures" with the Norris' and the Simpsons'. It's unreal--Frankie Jade couldn't be any cuter when she is in the room with us--she smiles, she laughs, she "talks," she blows tons of raspberries, but as soon as we walk out the door, her fingers go in her mouth and she shuts down. It could be behavior that is symptomatic of living in an institution, it could be that she is shy (doubt that), or I guess it could be that we are just so freakin' awesome that she only wants to be with us. When we got back to the room after the pictures, I tried to tell her, (as she was rolling around smiling and laughing) that the three of us can't be in this room all the time. I told her that we have to go out sometimes and mix with the outside world. Her response: She blew raspberries in my face.

Nice.

Cody packed for much of the day and we had every intention of running out and grabbing some lunch, but of course, that is when FJ decided to take her nap. No biggie, there is this great gourmet "deli" connected to the hotel so I went down and came back with plenty of food (and some desserts too)-can't miss a meal, you know me!

After lunch, I did my last minute shopping (for the third time) before changing Frankie into her "Consulate Appointment Outfit." Yes, she had a new outfit for her big day...and she looked super cute. The busses were loaded up with all the families who needed to go and we were off. We weren't allowed to take cameras so I have no shots, but it all went very well. A very personable American guy led the ceremony and went over all the details. He explained that as soon as our kids touch American soil, they are American. So cool! Then he had everyone stand up and take the oath. I wish I could remember how it went but I suck. I was just too excited to really pay attention. Since the guy had us repeat after him, I didn't have to think too much. I just knew we were going to be a family very soon and I was elated.

The best part was when the guy leading the ceremony asked everyone to raise their right hands and repeat after him. As soon as he said it, Frankie decided to blow a huge raspberry. Everyone around us was cracking up. It was so funny. She is seriously too much. The timing was perfect. Do you just love her? When he was finished Cody and I kissed (we didn't make out, it was like the kiss you do when you get married), and then we kissed Frankie who was still blowing raspberries. We were a family in the eyes of China at that moment. Now we just have to get home so America can recognize us as well.

We had a great dinner tonight, all three families. We ate at the hotel in this really beautiful restaurant. I ate so much, you would have thought I was going to the chair. I swear, I need a lazy Susan that is turbo charged. The ones in China just don't move fast enough for me. The best part: Wendy got a cake (yay--cake!!!). It was a really great night. We said our good-byes to the Norris' after dinner and exchanged many hugs. It was hard to hold back the tears. They are family now and I'm going to miss them tremendously. The Simpsons' are going with us to the airport tomorrow so we'll have to say good-bye to them tomorrow. That won't be pretty. I can't believe how close I feel to these people. We had the trip of a lifetime with them and I hope we all keep in touch.

Cathy, Amelia and I ran out after dinner to make sure there wasn't anything we missed in the stores. Of course there was and we bought it. I'm not sure what happened to my budget but don't worry, VISA took over where the yuan left off.

Before I sign off, I know I speak for Frankie and Cody when I say that we really appreciate you guys hanging with us during our adventures in China. We loved getting all your comments--the comic relief, advice and support meant the world to us. For those who weren't able to leave comments because you were blocked, or you just couldn't figure out how to do it, thank you for sending us emails. We know you're out there and we loved hearing from you. I know I've said it before, but it was not easy being in a foreign country very far from friends, family and Target with a new baby. You all made us feel a little closer to home and we will never forget your positive energy and endless encouragement. I don't understand why no one sent Floyd though. I can NOT wait to see Floydie!!!!

I'm a little nervous for the two long flights that lie ahead because I know they won't be easy. It's not just us anymore, we have a new addition (and she cries). That being said, I also know we'll get through the flights, security and customs as we do everything else, and quite frankly, I can't imagine doing it with anyone else. All of the reasons I love my husband are the same reasons that brought us to Frankie in the first place. I don't know of anyone else who would have done this with me, and I don't know anyone else I'd rather do it with.

We're coming home with a new Coden and I know you guys are going to love her. Thank you, in advance, for giving Swankie Frankie (and us) some time to get back on our game and get over our jetlag (the 12 hour difference may not be easy). We promise that she is worth the wait!

Oh, and she said to let you know that she likes presents.

I have no idea where she gets it.

She really has no shame.

Love you guys,

R, C and Frankie Jade Coden

Last Free Day

Yesterday (Wednesday) was our last free day. We have our Consulate Appt today at 2:40 and the rest of the day will be devoted to packing and picking up any last minute items. We are also going to put Frankie in one of her new Chinese dresses and take the famous "White Swan Red Couch Picture." The photo is a tradition amongst families who adopt from China and stay at this hotel. Frankie will take her picture with Cameron the Stud and Catherine the Beautiful. I'm thinking Cameron in the middle of his lady loves. Hot, right?

We put FJ in a stroller for the first time yesterday. Not fun. I have decided that no matter what it is, the first time Frankie tries it, she doesn't like it. (She's a little glass half empty that way). She had her wail-on for quite some time when we were riding her around. Cody and I just don't get it. We are completely baffled. Anyone want to weigh in? I mean, who doesn't want to be driven around town, maxin' and relaxin? We could not figure out what was wrong. What could make her cry so much? Admittedly, the stroller was borrowed from one of the stores around the hotel. Was it too low budget for Princess Frankie? Is she just too used to being carried around in the ergo by me and Daddy Warbucks? Did she want to push and let me sit in it? I seriously have no idea how this little girl became so high maintenance in a little over a week...I just don't know...

Anyway, we worked through it and she eventually started smiling again. As we were walking around the park, I noticed that there were lots of groups of people, kids and adults, playing hackeysack. The next thing I know--my husband gets in on one. He rocked it out! He played for awhile so of course I made him buy the hackey. Come on, you can't take up 15 minutes of the guy's time and then give him the "Ok, thank you!" without buying what he's selling. That is just mean.

I also took the liberty of taking a few public bathroom pictures. One of them is posted above. Doesn't it just make you want to redecorate all of your bathrooms at home?

That's really about it for our day yesterday. I got to do the rest of my shopping (in case you were wondering) because there will be no time today, Cody came with me for some and hung out with FJ in the room for some, and we had a nice, outdoor dinner at Lucy's Restaurant with the Norris' and the Simpsons'. (Banana splits and dancing included). 

Today is our last full day here, we're homeward bound soon! We're excited to get home and start another new phase with Frankie, we're excited to see Floyd and all of you, and we're excited that Terrell Pryor is going to be playing for the Buckeyes instead of UofM(well, I am).

 

We love and miss everyone. We should have some good Consulate and Red Couch pictures tomorrow. Hang in with us for one day...

XOXO

Just Chillin' in the Guange...

We had a much welcomed lazy day yesterday. I think we were still recovering from our Chinese Kareoke night the night before. We got home late (9:00 is now late for us) but had a blast. This place that we went to with The Simpsons was really cool. I think it was 4 floors and each floor was made up of private rooms. Each room had it's own big screen and kareoke machine so basically, you can make a fool out of yourself privately. There was a huge buffet of food and dessert on each floor too.  Frankie got up and sang "Oh, Mandy" with me and Cody--of course we changed the words to "Oh, Frankie." We partied and pigged out with our new friends. Is there anything better?

Our lazy day yesterday consisted of the early morning bottle, the "FJ roll around" and the much anticipated "pea soup poop." We then ventured to our daily buffet breakfast. (I am going to miss all these buffets). We spent the morning walking around the GZ blowing through my budget. At one point I sort of hinted that some of the items are indeed presents and aren't actually for me or Frankie. Cody took the bait and felt bad. He even threw a little extra yuan my way--we love Cody. 

I am happy to say that my daughter is now the proud owner of Chinese outfits that range from size 2 past size 14. (She even has more than one in some sizes which helps to explain how a budget can be blown here). We also got her a few pairs of the famous "squeaky shoes." You guys, these shoes are so funny. She can't wear them yet because she's not walking, but I crack up every time I see a kid walking around with them. They squeak when you walk. I'm fairly confident they will drive Floydie out of his mind (and all other dogs in the general vicinity). 

I would also like to make a note that I am working hard to get good deals here. The girls keep telling me "best price for you" or "discount for you"...who am I not to believe them?

At lunch FJ perfected the art of "raspberries" and had a great time blowing them in my face. She was so into it. It was a veritable CSI crime scene--DNA everywhere--love it. (There is a pic above). She also leaned back and gave me my first kiss. Loved that even more. 

At dinner (do you think we base our days around our meals?) the Frankster decided to throw a total "Frankie Fit" in the Thai restaurant. But really, what would dinner be like without that? Thankfully the place was really loud and loaded with kids so no one paid any attention to us. She had a very wet diaper so I tried to take her to the bathroom to change her. Um...NEGATIVE. I...don't....think...so. Gross me out the door. No shot was I changing her in there.

I promptly took her back to the table and got Cody out of his chair. We made a makeshift changing table right there (the chairs were padded--it's like they knew we were coming)!

Wendy helped us hold her steady and you know it--we changed that diaper right there at the table. Sexy AND classy!

Somehow we ended up in one of the stores on the way back to the hotel where I bought something--who can resist the "best price for me?"

While FJ discovered how funny her own feet can be back at the room, Cody was out looking for dessert. He brought us back some Haagan Daz ice cream and cake. How fun is that? (Note: This did NOT come out of my budget). We tried to give Frankie some ice cream but she just isn't into taking food yet. She slams her bottle like she's ready  to do a freakin' keg stand, but she just won't take food yet. Whatever--more ice cream and cake for me. I'm not worried: If she's anything like her mommy, everyone better watch their plates when she gets going. 

Tomorrow is the big day so we're going to take it easy again today. Tomorrow Frankie Jade Coden will be "sworn in" at the Consulate. Cody keeps telling her not to lie like Kwame. I hope she makes it through with a smile and a wave good-bye.

D-Town News:

I'm a putz.

Fussy Frankie FuLan

Yeah, she may look cute in that picture but it was "Fussy Frankie Day" today in the Guange. I'm going to estimate that she had about 30 meltdowns total today and I plucked about 12 grey hairs tonight (NOT COOL).

After another "stuff-your-face-while-taking-turns-holding-Frankie-big-buffet- breakfast," all three families ventured out to the Jade Market area. Prices are high and the vendors didn't really want to bargain. My "allowance" was burning a hole in my wallet and I really wanted to get FJ something for when she is older. I found nothing that I loved (so frustrating). We finally decided on buying a jade stone and having something made at a later date for Frankie at home. Brilliant! Custom... I do loooooove custom. :)

The meltdowns started this morning and continued sporadically throughout the day. Why, you ask? WE HAVE NO FREAKIN' IDEA. Kid has eaten, butt has been wiped, she's definitely not sick, diapers are changed every minute... 

Is she becoming high maintenance? Yes. 

It is from hanging with me too much? Probably.  

Do we feel bad for Cody? Definitely.

We had a brief reprieve from the "Eye Yie Yies" and wailing while walking around the Jade Market (probably because she knew I was looking for her) until we got to the restaurant for lunch. I was in the bathroom squatting away China style (still can't get used to that) and when I came out, there was FJ, wailing away on Daddy. We calmed her down enough to stuff our faces with more dim sum (insert weight gain here) and after lunch Cathy and I took off for a little unsupervised shopping. (The guys gave us 45 minutes and we used up every minute of it). I found some really cute stuff for FJ and I was very excited to get back to her, but when I got there--it was wail session number I-don't-know-what. 

Cody was DONE (and you guys know what he's like when he's done--eye yie yie!). It was definitely time to go back to the hotel. We finally got a cab and of course she was wailing like we were beating her for the whole ride back. I seriously thought the cab driver was going to throw us out of his cab. (We tipped very generously, and you know I made sure it didn't come out of my budget). 

We lived through a couple more inexplicable and inconsolable meltdowns back in the room until finally I threw down the "Listen, we haven't signed all the papers yet, Sister Sledge...quit pushing us..." and that seemed to quiet her down for the moment. Unfortunately, I can really only use that line until our Consulate Appt on Wed. After that, the Codens will be sucking it up.

It was still beautiful out tonight so we walked over to an outdoor restaurant about 5 minutes from the hotel for dinner.  John, Wendy and Catherine the Beautiful showed up and hung out with us, we suffered through another Cranky Frankie meltdown or five and that was that. Cody carried her back to the room and I followed them until I found myself in one of the shops on the way back to the hotel (seriously, how does that happen??)

Back in the room it was bath, bottle, taps and bedtime. I still haven't mastered the towel off after the bath. How do you do it? Do you lie her on the bed? Do you prop her up? Do you put the towel down and just roll her like a canolli? What's the deal? I keep thinking she's going to pee on me if I don't do it fast and get a diaper on her. I gotta tell you, I've been peed on by the Frankster and I'm not so into it. 

Ok, hope you all have a good Monday. It's bedtime here and Cody is out cold on the couch. I don't want to bug him. Can one of you come here and wake him up? 

XO

Frankie, Frankie, you're so fine...

...you're so fine, you blow my mind, hey Frankie!

So, Cody put me on a budget. 

A LOW BUDGET.

I'm not happy. Frankie isn't happy either.

We don't like budgets, especially low ones.

Thankfully there isn't a Bendel here cuz if there was mama would be throwing a Frankie Jade meltdown.

I have noticed that if I say that something is "for Frankie," that seems to be OK. 

Go figure. :)