Before the holidays we completed the second major hurdle in the process of re-adopting Mia. It involved the second of three rounds of social worker home-visits, pediatrician's examinations and reports, and progress summaries with family photos. It will soon be time to start the state's re-application paperwork and to think about the first the progress report for China, due in March.

Since our last entry Mia has earned her place in the ranks of toddlerhood. She now speedwalks around with abandon and is characteristically determined in her quest to master steps (our steps, our neighbors's steps, etc.). Transporting large, often furry toys in both arms while sucking on a bottle has been a favorite trick. Some days, however, taking it easy from the higher vantage point of Mama's or Dada's arms has been the preferred means of locomotion.

The highlight of the lead-up to the holidays was a family weekend trip to stay with friends Elizabeth and Jeff in Connecticut. Before becoming Mia's parents we would have found it difficult to understand how a one hour flight with baby could become a trip that takes the better part of a day and fills the luggage rack of the airport shuttle! During our wait on the runway at Dulles Mia had fun reacquainting herself with her airplane favorites, the tray-table, in-flight magazines, and flight attendant call button. In CT Mia fell in love with Elizabeth and Jeff's cat Muki and really enjoyed the tropical fish, penguins, and seals at Mystic Aquarium. She does a great imitation of barking seals.

The following day brought Mia's first bite of the Big Apple. It was delightful to see her captivated by the tall buildings and holiday lights of Manhattan. She enjoyed people-watching and flirting on the subway, in Central Park (where we watched Jeff run in a race - yeah, Jeff!), in Chinatown, and along 5th Avenue. We all feasted on dim sum at the bustling Jing Fong restaurant, which won the "best Chinese food we've had outside of China so far" distinction.

Our first Christmas with Mia was a joyous occasion and a fun-filled day. Christmas morning gift wrappings and packaging were items of high interest to her. She carefully examined and dissected them. Mia also got a great kick checking out of her gifts. For example, a warm sleeveless jacket from Granny Morgan and a play shopping cart from Mama were instant and enduring successes.

A large and festive family gathering at Nana & Gags Singleton followed in the afternoon. Mia received lots of attention from two aunts, two uncles and many cousins. She handled it like a pro, working the room to forge individual relationships with her mama's side of the family.