Day 33

Another visit, another big day! Erlan said his first English word, "Up!" He has said mama, papa, and baba (banana) but this was his first clear word. He held his hands up to me and clearly said, "Up!" He also tried to say animal names when we read his book today. He understands when I tell him to put his shoes by my shoes. He knows when we want him to come to us. He's such a clever boy!

We were able to go outside twice today. Erlan likes going outside so much. I think he would like to escape from the orphanage whenever we go outside. The nannies are taking the children outside now so we see groups of kids. We try to avoid them b/c they just watch us and some clearly want to interact with us. I kind of think Erlan likes to show us off when we do see groups of kids.

Erlan is very fearful of stuffed animals. He's even afraid of the fur on my boots. The only stuffed animals in the orphanage are huge. At first, Erlan would give them wide berth and a terrified look. Ben showed him that Erlan could hit them so he wouldn't be afraid. The video shows the results of Ben's efforts. Erlan still doesn't like stuffed animals, but I think he's overcoming his fear.