Dinner and a Toy Store?

Tonight, Lily Grace got to experience her first outing at an American restaurant. We took her to Ruby Tuesdays in Madison, AL. Of course, we were nervous about how she would react, what she would do, would she cry, would we have to leave before we got to finish our dinner, would she sit in the high chair, etc... But of course, we were worried over nothing. Lily Grace enjoyed her outing very much. She had chicken fingers and french fries, ahh good ol' American fare. She didn't even so much as whimper while we ate. One of the waitresses came over to offer Lily another crayon. She held out about 5 and asked what color she wanted. Of course, Lily Grace took them all! There were several other babies in the restaurant who were crying and I wondered if that would trigger Lily Grace to cry. But she just looked around to see what all the fuss was about and then continued eating (they probably didn't have any crayons!). She played with each of us, teasing us with her food, asking for food from our plates, just normal stuff. Only problem, forgot the camera!!! Sorry, no pictures of dinner!

Some friends from church happened to be at the same restaurant and came over to visit. Lily seemed really at home the entire time. I know it's hard to believe, but it seems that Lily Grace was especially meant for us and for North Alabama. It's like God has already told her that was his plan for her and comforted her for us. We keep worring and He keeps telling us: "I've got this, just relax and enjoy, and teach her about me."

Other noteable events: First football practice, first visit to an American toy store (remember the toy factory in Guangzhou??), first ride in new car seat, and oh, by the way, first night in her own bedroom.

Last night, we took Lily Grace to East Limestone's football practice to pick up Austin (he's one of the managers). She got to see for the first time what American football looks like. She was wearing a pair of squeaky shoes and one of the dads watching practice asked me if that noise was her shoes or my knees! Do I look that old? Connie took her on to the field after practice to meet some of the players and the coach. Austin was very proud to show her around. Several players took a long look at her as they exited the field. They smiled and then looked at Austin as if to say "Good job, Austin."

Lily Grace also got to visit a toy store in Huntsville. We took her to Toys R Us to begin spoiling her, I mean to get some toys, and she was amazed. She mostly liked the toys that spoke to her as we walked past. She couldn't figure it out. Connie bought her and Austin a few toys each. On the way home, she began to whine a tired whine, but eventually just started singing!!

Jerry finally put the new car seats in both cars (we've been using Austin's car seat that was about 10 years old). Boy these new-fangled things are hard to manage - so many snaps and buckles. Lily likes the new seat, because she sits up higher and can see out of the window. Seems to be no problem to ride in a car seat.

And finally, the big one. Lily Grace spent her first night in her new bedroom. She slept upstairs last night and I got to regain my old, comfortable, bed for the first time since before China. Yea! She is now taking her naps there and sleeping there (Connie is sleeping up there with her for now). Keep your fingers crossed, so far , so good!

Well, that's all for now. Time to go to my old, comfortable bed.

Love,
Jerry, Connie, Austin, and Lily Grace
Green, Party of Four