medical appointment done

Our guide Helen took Madi and I along with the 4 other families from my
agency to Shamian Island this morning for Visa pictures and the medical
examination. This examination is necessary in order for Madi to be
issued clearance for her Visa to come to the US. Madi had her medical
exam this morning. After a few moments of "consultation" the doctor
signed off on her medical and sent us on our way. She had the PPD
planted and we go back on Monday for the results of that. I have no
doubt that it will be fine and then we are one more huge step closer to
coming home. Madi did so well, up until the "medical exam." She went
to the "ent" room where the doctor examined her mouth and checked her
hearing. Quite comical as she just squeezed a squeeze toy on either side
and jotted down some notes. The place was so noisy but she passed
nonetheless. LOL. I can feel confident that after that thorough exam we
don't need to follow up with audiology at home. She had a vision
screening and her height and weight was done. I didn't even ask her
measurements. LOL Once we got to the "physical exam" portion, I
recognized the doctor as the same doctor that did both Emily and
Alyssa's exam. That is so neat. I now have pictures of all three of my
girls with this same doctor. Madi became upset at this point and wasn't
too happy about getting the TB test either. Poor baby. She just cried
and cried. But she melted into my arms and allowed me to comfort her.
She is such a brave girl. My guide Helen is amazing and she is winning
Madi over. A piece of candy after the medical appointment was a welcomed
treat. After the medical exam, we went walking on the Island and I felt
"at home." I love this area and it was nice to see some familiar
places. Jordan was out handing our flyers for his shop and he said to
me...."I see you before." LOL. I will be sure to visit his shop
tomorrow and help his economy. The shops on Shamian Island are
struggling to stay afloat since the American Embassy was moved. It is
very sad to see that so many of the shops have closed. There are still
many open, but many have closed as a result of decreased sales. On the
agenda for the rest of today, is some rest time and a paperwork meeting
with Helen and the rest of the families. All of the children are doing
great!! Madi is the oldest and I believe Gracie (also from Fuzhou) is
the youngest at 19 months. The other children are around 2 1/2. We
have 3 girls and 2 boys being adopted in our group.

Helen is arranging for us to all go out to dinner for Christmas. That
should be nice. On Monday we are going to the Pearl and Jade Market.
Tuesday we are going to the Safari Park. Wednesday is a "free day"
where you will find me on Shamian Island. Thursday is our Consulate
Appointment and then we are going to the 6 Banyan Temple and another
famous museum. Friday is another free day to shop and then on
Saturday.....we are homeward bound. This week is sure to fly by. I am
so thankful for an easy trip so far. Madi is VERY easy going. She is
settling in more and more each day and I cannot believe how much I lover
her already. Actually, I do believe it, because I have done this gig
twice before. My girls are going to LOVE her. They already get a kick
out of all of the mischief she gets into when we are skyping. I miss my
family at home like crazy, but I am enjoying this much needed alone time
bonding with my little girl. She is a dream come true. How lucky am I to
have 3 such perfect little girls!!!