Katie Ru's new "do"

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I know it doesn't really look much different but a few people kept asking my to post photos of Kate's "bob." So, here it is. I like it but I really want to let her hair grow. I have had it cut 3 times since she has been home in an attempt to even it out. A few people also keep asking about Kate's homecoming video. I am flattered that you want to see it:) However, right now, Kate wants me to hold her ALL the time. In fact, I have gone back to wearing her in the Mei Tai. Thus, I have no time to work on it. I will post it as soon as I do it but for right now, it is on the back burner.

Thank you for the outpouring of kindness regarding the attachment issues. I cannot express how much it meant to me. I know that attachment is a long process but I think sometimes people do forget that it comes in stages. I want to clarify that Kate is attached to us in so many ways. Indiscriminate attachment does not mean the child hasn't attached to the primary caregiver. It means they are sort of transferring that affection and attachment to lots and lots of people (indiscriminately). Sometimes, being the loving, affectionate and charming one served them well in the orphanage or foster home so that is all they know. And as far as attachment issues go, this one is not as detrimental as many others.

People have asked me to recommend sources. My main sources were scientific research articles because I like research articles and this is in my professional field. I also spoke with an attachment clinic. There are some good books out there too. Adoption Parenting (several contributing experts) and Attaching in Adoption by Deborah Gray are two books that are highly respected in the field of attachment and adoption. Let me know if you want me to post the specific recommendations that we have been given. I do not really want to turn this into an attachment forum and I am not an attachment expert but if people want the information, I am happy to share.

One quick update on Kate's sleep. A few weeks ago we were having sleep issues. No doubt they were/are attachment related as well. However, we got two tips that did help immensely. One was to use a sound machine (thanks Debbie). I bought the cheapest homedics sound machine/alarm clock for Kate's room at BB&B. It has really helped. Maybe she was used to a noisier environment in her foster home.

Another person recommended that we read the same exact book to Kate at every nap and every bedtime. We have been very consistent with bedtime routines and we did read to her but it was always something different. Well, based on this advice, we chose Goodnight Moon. Now, when I say it is nap time, Kate goes over and gets Goodnight Moon, plops in my lap and turns the pages as I read it to her. After I finish, she walks over to her crib, grabs her lovey and puts her arms up for me to put her in the crib. It has been miraculous. It has become a clear cue to her that it is time to sleep. Thank you Connie at Mommy24treasures for your "been there done that" advice! Have a great weekend everyone:)