Brief update by David

Tammy wanted to update last night, but then Sophie woke up at 11:00pm. She kept us up until 1:30. It was terrible. Needless to say Tammy is tired, and she and Sophie are already asleep. Tammy will update soon with many good pictures as well.

Sunday was better in some ways. Sophie was a little more interactive and allowed me to hold her more- a few times even with Tammy around. We were reasonably pleased with Sunday until the terrible sleeping.

So Monday came, and we were scheduled to go to the Safari Park. The weather was good, and we wanted out of Shamian Island and the hotel. We were both apprehensive because of the 45 minute bus ride each way and because Tammy is hurting physically and carrying Sophie for 6 hours would be tough.

The ride there was as expected. Sophie cried and moaned. She hates the bus. We get there and are set to ride a train for 40 minutes to view the large animals. (Btw- this park is tremendous. It is on par with the San Diego Zoo). On this open air train ride, Sophie opens up. She starts baby talking and laughing with Tammy and then with me. She is acting silly and is engaged with us truly for the first time. We quit watching the animals to play with her.

After the train ride, I decide to try and carry Sophie. She lets me for the next hour or so. Tammy kept out of her sight and kept her distance, but that was ok. We were with all the families in our group. They know our struggles, and it gave us time to talk with them, while Tammy kept her distance. It made me happy to carry Sophie to bond with her and to help Tammy's back and knees. Tammy also needed some time without Sophie clinging on her.

Sophie was great at the park and slept on the bus ride back. We ate dinner with another couple from our group, and she was good there too.

We still have a long way to go. She still fusses alot. She still won't be content with me with Tammy around. She still doesn't play independently. We definitely today saw more of her personality and felt affection from her. Hopefully, tomorrow will bring more and more.

Also, pray that Tammy and Sophie get a good night's sleep. God has been faithful to us in the lows, and we thank Him for that and for the hope for further bonding soon.