Still Waiting for TA...

I'm anxious to hear word that we've received Travel Approval (TA) from China so we can proceed with making travel plans. My agency is looking at the end of August as a tentative travel date. I've been busy getting the house and nursery organized and trying to fit everything I need to bring in one suitcase and a backpack. I'm planning on bringing size 12-18 month size clothes with me, with the intention of buying clothes and shoes in Guangzhou.

I've also been doing my research on the Social Welfare Institute where she is living, in hopes of preparing myself for any "issues" that are common in the children. I belong to two Yahoo groups started by families that have adopted from Maonan starting in 2001. Here's what I've learned:

1) The children often arrive in Guangzhou constipated after being given something to prevent "accidents" on the six hour train trip.
2) Dry skin, eczema, rashes, mosquito bites and boils are somewhat common.
3) The Maonan children in the past have not been introduced to solid foods as most babies usually are, but are kept on the bottle well past their first 12 months. The formula is served in combination with cereal, is thick, hot and is delivered with a large hole in the nipple preventing good sucking reflexes. Poor sucking skills can lead to speech problems down the road, so good to know.

This information helps me tremendously. I have already packed some prune/apple juice and baby food prunes, but will also bring some infant glycerin suppositories. I will bring a larger tube of Eucerin cream and some Aveeno oatmeal bath powder. Also, some Benadryl and Neosporin cream for bites. I'll have to see how MaryAlice's feeding skills are, but am now at least prepared to work through some feeding issues. I had already planned, but will now really push my pediatrician to order an Early Intervention evaluation. Feeding issues can lead to speech issues, so I want to stay on top of that.

I write these things for the benefit of my friends and family that regularly check this blog. These are the things that I've been preparing for over the past 2 years. These things are common in internationally adopted children. These are things that I may not have to deal with, but I'd rather be prepared and have a plan of action. There is a clinic right in The White Swan Hotel, so if there's any question, I can take MaryAlice there to be checked out and given medicine. I also have the International Adoption specialist, Todd Ochs, MD in Chicago available via email or phone should if I have any questions. He has four adopted daughters from China.

I guess the point of this post is to reiterate how invaluable the internet has been in learning things and connecting to folks who've "been there, done that", that can offer advice and experience. Once I'm home from China, I'll probably take the blog private. But for now, I think it's my turn to pay it forward and help those behind me, waiting for the next step and trying to prepare for their adventure.

So come on China....I want my TA!!!! Then, I want my CA, so I can get on a plane and get MA!!