Sunday,
June 1, 2008
WE'RE HOME!
The jet lag was bad, but the stomach flu I brought home with me
was worse. Not to be graphic, but everything shooting out
everywhere is pretty miserable. When the airline packs 400
people into a metal tube of an airplane, I’m pretty sure germs
circulate during those seemingly endless hours of flight. (You
know--those awkward hours where you are trying to decide
wordlessly who really gets to use armrest—you or the stranger
next to you.) Kai kicked the seat in front of him about a
million times, I’m sure—despite my endless efforts to contain
him. Those seats are just too close together. So please try to
be tolerant next time a child is kicking your seat. His mother
really is very sorry.
Anyway, only a few of us ended up with the flu. We seem to be on
the mend now. Kai has settled in pretty well. He still growls
and swats at strangers—and occasionally at his brothers when
they start to annoy him.
Kai’s sister and brothers would like to bond with him
immediately. He is now starting to dole out some kisses (when it
suits him). When he’s not feeling so loving, he will usually
still offer his forehead to be kissed.
Before leaving for China, we had a long talk about Kai with the
kids. We explained that Kai will be almost two years old. And
that two year olds throw tantrums, and take toys from your
hands, and sometimes kick and hit. And that we must be tolerant
and loving and patient. Then to recap I asked the five year old,
“So if Kai hits you, what do you do?” (Now remember we had JUST
had the talk). Brendan replied, “I hit him back.” So, needless
to say, we are working on it.
Kai is learning new words quickly. For example, when I throw Kai
in the air, I say, “Ready, set, go.” Now I say, “Ready.” And Kai
says, “Set.” Then I finish with, “Go.” But by then he’s already
laughing in anticipation.
Kai experienced Chuck E Cheese and Brunswick Zone this week. He
did enjoy chucking the little skeet ball up the lane.
To my mother who cooked and cleaned my house when we got back,
endless thanks!
In just a month, our little son has come so far. He has felt
rain on his face. Been cherished in the hugs of his mommy while
he sleeps. Experienced the whiskery kisses of his father. Tasted
a french fry.
|
Touch down (finally!) at OHare.
The kids were sooo excited to see Kai.
Presents always help to pave the path to good will.
(A good marital lesson too).
Bonding time in the big tub.
Enjoying suckers on the deck before breakfast.
(Hence the disheveled look here). |
