I've come to the shocking conclusion that I am more overwhelmed than Julianna. For me, it's not adding another child or a child with a disability that overwhelms me...it's the week before school starts for four of our children who all need at least two items and...oh yeah, I'm a school principal who is feeling the guilt of not being at work. Julianna...I hope, doesn't feel my uneasiness about the timing of her arrival...She continues to amaze us everyday!
Some of you have asked us if we learned Russian or does she know English? Well, honestly, we have no trouble communicating. We have taught her some sign language, we know some important Russian words, and she learns more English words everyday! For example, tonight at dinner, she didn't want the food that was on her plate, so she signed the word "Cracker". I found the crackers on the counter and was happy to oblige her because she was such a quick study. She is definitely a visual learner...doesn't miss anything!
Gabby has painted hr toenails and fingernails. She is thrilled with this touch of femininity. Julianna tries to tip her head down and brush her hair like the girls do, pulling it up on her head. Of course, her hair is just a tad bit too short for this style, but I'm sure she'll keep working on it.
We have played all kinds of ball outside, jumped on the trampoline, and had lots of fun on the swing set. Julianna is at her best when she is moving! And she is a great match for Vinnie's athletic prowess.
We took the kids to the pool yesterday and today. The first time that Julianna went into the pool, she made sure that Francesca or "Chechie" as she calls her, did not get out of her clutches. Now, today...Julianna was jumping off the side of the pool!!! We have a life vest on her, as we knew she had no prior experience in a pool. We are confident that in a short period of time, she will be swimming as confidently as her siblings. I'm sure her desire to jump from the side today was because she watched Angelo jump so many times. It was amazing to watch!
Julianna is a natural helper. She wants to do everything that the girls and I do. Today she helped make dinner - even wore an apron. She cleans off the table and sets the table with Gabby. Julianna also helped Francesca wash the dishes. She actually thought it was fun...I'm sure that will change with age.
Her siblings are adjusting well to her arrival. Angelo loves having her here and shares his therapy time with her. Vinnie and Julianna have been at odds a number of times already. The older three children have been great with her and with their brothers. I am a bit sad that Julianna could not have arrived earlier in the summer so that we could have had more time together before school starts.
PLEASE see the pictures that Kenny posted below. They really do tell a great story ...
Until another time-
Annie