Precious Pictures

I finally developed the rolls of film we had sent to Raina's foster parents.  The story they tell is amazing!  It is clear that her hair was shaved and it appears that, at least initially, Raina was dressed in boy clothes.  The explanation may simply be that the only clothes available were boys clothing (she did have an older foster brother) or , as is common in Guiyang, the family chose to dress Raina as a boy for the social status a boy brings.  Whatever the case, she is adorable!

She obviously spent a lot of time crawling on couches, which explains her uncanny perception to know when she is too close to the edge of a bed, stairs, etc.

 I love this photo!  The gentleman holding Raina is her foster dad and I'm assuming the other gentleman is a grandfather.

 This is another favourite!  It shows her playful and fun-loving spirit!

It warms my heart to know Raina was in a loving, caring environment.  And yet it breaks my heart to know that this family is grieving the lose of a very special child.  We will be sending an update to the SWI in hopes that the foster family will receive it and find some comfort in knowing that Raina is adjusting amazingly well and is loved beyond words!