TB skin test results and Guangzhou Zoo

We started our day going back to the medical clinic to have Gracie's TB skin test reviewed.  It was negative.  However, based on her slow heart rate, the doctor wanted to evaluate her again.  The first doctor that came in was an older man and didn't speak English.  He was refusing to sign off on her medical review and was insisting that she could not leave unless she had a pacemaker implanted.  Our guide tried to interpret for Michael, but things were getting lost in translation.  Fortunately, there was an English speaking physician who listened to what Michael had to say.  He was reluctant to sign but agreed on the condition that we monitor her closely and kept her from being too active.  We assured him that we would do so and informed him that we had an appointment to see a pediatric electrophysiologist next week.  I am so thankful that everything worked out.  At the least we would have been delayed coming home.  Worst case scenario, they could have insisted that she have surgery before we brought her home.  I can't imagine what would have happened if Michael didn't specialize in electrophysiology and had been unable to explain her condition and why she doesn't currently need a pacemaker.  Needless to say, we were quite happy to get out of there and move on to the Guangzhou Zoo. 

Michael and I were looking forward to seeing the pandas.

Gracie was not so excited.  She covered her eyes the whole time not wanting the panda to see her.  Needless to say, we spent most of the time strolling and avoiding looking at most animals.

I did get some good lovin' today.  She has been hugging me and has even given us both some kisses! 

There were all sorts of unusual creatures at the zoo;-)  They probably had 20 raccoons in two separate exhibits. 

Bunches of different monkeys.

One very large Chimpanzee!

Our own silly monkey!  She makes this face all the time.

 

 

After a very difficult night (and several nights of trouble getting Gracie to sleep) we asked our guide to contact the orphanage and ask about how she went to sleep at night.  We found out that she did NOT sleep in a crib but rather a toddler bed.  She was in a room of about 20 kids.  They put them to bed and close the door.  My guess is then they determine for themselves when they lay down and go to sleep. 

 

We decided tonight to take the crib mattress out and put it on the floor.  We then laid down beside her until she fell asleep.  So much easier than the fight we have been having and why she likely wakes up and wants out of the crib.  I am guessing the success we had with a crib the first couple of days (and our desperate search to borrow one for when we get home) was a result of the change in her environment and not really knowing what to do.  As she has come out of her shell, she has began expressing her opinions on many things; particularly how and when she goes to sleep.  Tonight was successful.  Tomorrow may be a different story.  Please continue to pray that she will feel safe and secure with us and the attachment that she is beginning to feel with strengthen and take deep route in her heart.