October 1, 2010 National Day! Shamian Island

Kai woke up in the middle of the night once seeming to have a bad dream. I patted his back until he fell back asleep. I saw one of the nannies doing that to one of Kai’s “brothers” who woke up when we were all talking while the kids were trying to take their nap. I couldn’t go back to sleep and stayed up thinking about how much this child means to me. I think I tell Kai “Ma ma ai ni” (Sounds like: Ma ma eye knee which means Mama loves you) at least 100 times a day. When I do, he nods his head in agreement and smiles. I love it. He is especially sweet and loving when he wakes up in the morning or from a nap. He is so happy to see us. After I give him a big cuddle and kiss, I lay him down to change his diaper. I talk softly to him and he babbles back at me. I think he really is trying to tell me something. He is so tender and has a sweet soft voice. I cherish this time with him. I love this baby so much.

This morning our guide Ike bought a stroller for us. He came to the hotel and Kai saw it and was not too thrilled about sitting in it. Kai is not heavy, about 16 pounds, but he has no concept of holding on, and so it makes him hard to hold. He had some objections to the stroller, but mommy wins this one. Soon after we started he fell asleep. He was pretty much a grump all day. He really wants nothing to do with Ike. Ike is trying to be friendly, but Kai won’t budge. The only male he wants to talk to him is his daddy. In fact, he won’t go to many people at all right now. I think he is overwhelmed with traveling and not being able to communicate with us. When our last guide, Mamie, spoke with him, he would nod or shake his head to answer her, but he won’t even look at Ike unless it is the “pitiful” look. Hopefully tomorrow will be better. I wish Ike knew how sweet Kai is. I think it will just take time.

This evening, we decided to take a stroll around the island. It was a beautiful night. The lights and decorations for the holiday were unbelievable! I could see my sons face light up like he had never seen this before. I know we are going to have many firsts with him and I can’t wait. I want to show this little boy the world he has never known before.

 His first stroller ride on Shamian Island. Even though he didn't want to get in, he will still pose for the camera!

                             Nighttime stroll! He loves his Cheerios!

                Colonial European style buildings on the island. Very pretty all lit up!

               Koi and goldfish pond inside the famous White Swan Hotel.