Our full week!

It's been truly amazing settling into life the last week...we are finally into a routine, the house isn't totally out of control anymore, Madalyn's getting used to her new life (allergies and all!), and Greg and I are getting sleep! Overall, it's been a really great transition.

We took Madalyn to the pediatrician on Monday and she's 17.8 lbs. and 30 in. long. On the American growth chart, she's at the top for height and the bottom for weight, but we're just happy she's even ON the chart since she was 3.9 lbs. at birth. Maddy was gagging on her new American formula and the doctor told us it was probably because it tasted very bland to her. Evidently, in Latin America they add lots of sugar to their baby formulas and food. She suggested we add an ounce of juice to our formula mix and it has worked WONDERS. She loves it!

We've had a joyful steady flow of visitors over to meet our little girl from near and far, including Branson and Manhattan! She's been such a trooper through all the hugs and kisses from the family and friends that love her so. They all agree she's a great gift from the Lord!

My sweet co-workers at school gave Madalyn a "Welcome Home" party on Tuesday. She was so cute in her little skirt that her Grammie bought for her. They gave us a money tree which was such a generous, gracious gift. It was so nice to see everyone after so long.

We had a big day today...first day at church AND a little "bling" to go along with that gorgeous smile of hers. Yep. We got her ears pierced! She and her little buddy, Brooklyn, were very brave and only cried a wee bit. Well, okay, Brooklyn only cried a little bit. Madalyn screamed. But, it was all over very quickly and she hasn't even touched them the rest of the day! They look so adorable! It's a tradition in Guatemala for baby girls to get their ears pierced, mainly to tell them apart from baby boys. We thought we'd carry the tradition on...

I have enjoyed my time off with the family...it's been nice to only have Greg and Madalyn to tend to every day. We are grateful for this time! I miss my students dearly, but I know they are in good hands (thanks Laurie and Yvette!).

We are anxiously awaiting word on when Amanda and Jeff get their PINK slip and can head down to get Bella...it should be any day now!!! We want that baby HOME where she belongs! We hope and pray it all goes smoothly. God is so good.

I apologize for not blogging very regularly the past few weeks...life has DRASTICALLY changed; for the better of course! It's been quite time consuming figuring out our new life! For now, here's some cute pics from the week. Love and hugs!!

Meeting the red-headed cousins...




Looking pretty for church...




Welcome home party...









The piercing...



And afterwards...



Don't we look cute with our new bling???




Momma's sweet girl...