Home Sweet Home

We have been home almost six weeks! It has not been an easy transition to a family of four. Ellie Grace had a wonderful time with her Nana and Pop, my parents, while we were in China. Then she came home to Mom and Dad's rules , a new sibling, and having to share attention and toys. I have heard my share of temper tantrums from both children! Niklas slept fine in China but didn't sleep well alone in his room here. We are very thankful to have a few air mattresses from Grandma Susie and Grandpa How to help us with sleep. they came right over with them when we were desperate for some sleep! Niklas is currently sleeping on one in our room so that we can all get some better sleep. Our ideal place for him to sleep is in his room but that wasn't working at this time. We will work towards that after surgery and/or when he is more secure.
Niklas has seen his pediatrician, the ENT, and the cleft team. He will be having ear tubes put in on August 12 and we are waiting to hear about the date for surgery on his palate. This may be a big surgery as they agree that we really need to help his speech progress. He currently can only say a few sounds/words due to the width of his palate. The speech pathologist at the cleft clinic has him starting speech next week to reinforce basic vocabulary words.
Overall, I think Niklas is adjusting to us and his new home. He and Ellie Grace fight like any brothers and sisters do on a daily basis. It warms my heart to see them play with exchange hugs and kisses. Ellie Grace said "Thank you for borning Niklas in China" to me the other day. She is really interested in reading many of our adoption books such as "I Love You Like Crazy Cakes" and we are talking a bit more about her adoption story.