Wednesday, June 20, 2007

Settling in

The last couple days have mostly involved Joanna and I trying to get Mikias into some sort of schedule. We're still trying to adjust his eating and sleeping to something a little more manageable. We think he's still adjusting to the time change a bit too. Today we think we were pretty successful in spreading out his feedings and minimizing his lengthy naps. We'll see if everything works out tonight and he sleeps a little more consistently.

Yesterday Mikias had his appointment with the pediatrician. Being first time parents, this appointment was extremely helpful to us. Overall, Mikias is in very good health and is progressing developmentally quite well. Unfortunately, because of his ongoing cold, he now has an ear infection. This is the likely cause of some of his fussiness. Some antibiotics should take care of this.

Since his arrival in the US on Saturday, Mikias has been gradually meeting some of our friends and family and getting to know them a little better. It has also been great touching base with some people to begin telling our stories and sharing some of our pictures and video. We hope to continue to do this in the coming days and weeks.

It's felt a little strange to us pushing a stroller around the neighborhood or having a car seat in our vehicle. The feeling is a bit surreal. This whole experience has been almost like a dream. What an adventure it has been...but this is only the beginning!

7 comments:

Mandy said...

Glad things seem to be calming down. We will be up your way one night next week visiting Becca at camp. Maybe we could arrange a drop in to visit and meet the newest McKinney. I'll have Jason call you guys.

Abby said...

Good to hear that you are settling in well. Sorry to hear about the ear infection. It's hard when they are crying and you have no idea why! We hope to catch up with you soon too! I'm sure Alayna will love to play with Mikias! Or maybe they will just sit and stare at each other :)

Anonymous said...

Ben and Joanna - We have really enjoyed reading your blog. We feel like we have gotten some insight into our own lives by following along with you! I'm sure this blog has brought back memories for our Mom (Kathy). Sometimes we feel like we are on another continent since we are so far away. That doesn't mean you aren't in our thoughts and prayers! We are counting your blessings and thanking God for your safe return and beautiful son! He seems to always be smiling! All our love from California!

Anonymous said...

Mrs. Mckinney, Emily told me that you finally got your baby. I saw the pictures and he is so cute. Congrats and i so happy and excited for all three of you. lots of love Esther Afolabi in London

Anonymous said...

Hi Mckinney's
I hadn't checked the blog in a couple of days.I pretty much stay in touch, but I enjoy reading all the comments. Looking forward to seeing Mikias on Monday.

Love,
Mom and Grandma K

Anonymous said...

Congratulations you two! Welcome to parenthood! Ben, I can't wait to hear your stories of Africa at work next week. Glad to hear how well Mikias is doing. Our friends in Port Huron just arrived home with 2 children from Liberia and one of them has Malaria, which is actually the least of their overall problems. It is so sad to see what a hard life these little ones have to endure in Africa. God Bless You both for what you have done for this little one.

Deanna said...

You guys sound like old pros already :)