Attachment Progress

One of the biggest challenges I have faced over the past few months has been the degree to which our little one has clung to me and relied on me for comfort. Sounds like a weird comment, right? What I mean is that I am a fairly independent person and I was not prepared for the fact that someone needing me to be there for them at all times would, at times, feel so overwhelming.

This need has most definitely changed over the past ten weeks. I could probably pinpoint shifts in her attachment and needs on a weekly or bi-weekly basis. In fact, looking back, I can't believe that we have come this far, so quickly. Just like the sleep issues, when you are in it, it feels like it won't ever end. Once it does, you realize just how quickly Maelyn has adjusted to life with our family.

When we first got home, Maelyn would not leave my arms. Getting anything done around the house was nearly impossible. I will always remember the day when she started to play independently, even if it was only for five minutes at a time. I was so proud of her and happy that she was beginning to feel secure in her new home and confident that her Mama and Baba would be able to meet her needs.

Last night was another huge step in the process of Maelyn becoming a secure and independent little creature. I finally went out on my own -- for the first time since Maelyn became a part of our family. I went out shopping for about two hours, while Maelyn stayed at home with Daddy and played the hours away. About an hour into my absence, Auntie Kara and Uncle Cam stopped by for a visit. Together, they all went out for a walk and played. What I couldn't believe was that Maelyn had changed in the short time since I had been away.

All of a sudden, Maelyn was saying 'hello' when holding Auntie Kara's cell phone. She was holding her hands up in question when asked, "Where is.....?" She was looking at pictures of herself on my sister's phone and then pointing to herself and she even started posing for pictures and saying her version of 'cheese!' for the camera. I couldn't believe it -- I only missed two hours of her learning and I ended up coming home to a new child!

Paul and I have been marveling at the changes in Maelyn over the past week. She is turning another corner and becoming much more comfortable with everything. Maelyn is waving at us to come with her and even pats the chair or ground beside her if she wants you to sit with her. She is truly communicating with us and with our family and friends, using sign language and a lot of body language. We are even starting to recognize words that she is attempting to mimic -- made difficult with her open palate. Maelyn continues to astound us everyday and has such an amazing personality.

We have reached a point where Maelyn does not need me all the time -- and ironically, I sometimes find myself missing the little one who clung to her Mama. But only for a second -- as the progress Maelyn has made and the happiness that she exudes every day brings me the greatest joy.

Maelyn and Jake