Orneriness Takes Over!

(I have been trying to post more pictures, but for some reason it is not working. I'll keep working at it.)

Joy continues to adjust well with her new Mama, Baba, and Jeijei. She had a bit of a rough day yesterday. She was in an ornery mood. We tried to pick our battles wisely so as not to exasperate her, but by dinner she was in meltdown mode. We were at dinner with our travel group. She was purposely being "naughty" (as they called it in the orphanage). Eventually, she was just downright mad at Baba and Mama because we would not let her pull the tablecloth off the table. :) She started to cry, and then the floodgates opened.

She started crying for her Mama (and she was NOT talking about me!) I think she needed to crash and burn and just have a good ole meltdown and let some of that pent up fear and grief out. She let me hold her, but she was inconsolable. After a while of not settling down, she did let big sister take her to the playground while we waited for the food. Sarah calmed her down, and they enjoyed some time playing. Once they came in to eat, we got our bellies full and immediately left. I knew she would be exhausted from all those emotions.

Once back at the hotel, I gave Joy a bath. Then she and I laid down in bed and snuggled. She was sound asleep in less than 3 minutes.

I knew Joy would eventually need to break down. She probably will many more times before she reaches a place of adjustment. I'm glad she felt safe enough with us to let all those emotions come crashing in, and I'm glad I'm secure enough as a mom to know this ain't about me.

The next morning, she was alert, happy, and roaring to go have a good day. And so far, it's been another great day together!