Day 2 with Claire

Today was a busy day as we had to go to the Civil Affairs Office and the Notary Office. We signed a bunch of official looking documents, all in Chinese. So I'm trusting our guide ShaoLi (Missy) that we didn't just agree to repay the US debt to China! Even Claire had to participate in this most important paperwork.



After it was all done, we had to take pictures with Director Lu, his staff and the lady that helped us at Civil Affairs.



The lady with the short hair, one of Claire's caregivers, teased Claire that she should come back to the orphanage with her. Claire declared "No! I am staying with them!" Claire is a sweet girl and clearly has a mind of her own. She is already testing us and it is challenging to redirect her behavior when she doesn't understand English. She is brave beyond words, she pretty much got in the pool today with very little hesitation. She loves to do hair and fancies herself quite the beautician. Hours were spent today working on Catherine, ShaoLi and Stephanie's hair. This is one of her creations.



Someone has allowed her to use electronics as she seems to be relatively skilled at the use of an iPad and computer. I've got to figure out how to lock my iMac screen. Tomorrow is a bit of a quiet day for us. Nothing in particular is scheduled so we are going to go do some sightseeing and a little shopping with Stephanie. On Thursday we are going to Claire's Orphanage in ZaoZhuang. Director Lu also wants to show us around the city. He is a very kind man and clearly loves the children. He is being so very generous with his time with us and we are really looking forward to the day with him. It will be good to see where Claire has been and we are hoping for more information and pictures of her. To Be Continued . . . . .