During our long trip home, we have begun to discuss Julianna’s homecoming. It occurred to us that our entire family needs to feel a part of welcoming and preparing for her. Gabriella has already indicated that she wants to help get her outfits prepared, which means shopping of some sort. Kenny and I thought that Vincent could help put her bed together and perhaps pick out some simple games and toys for her long plane ride home to America. Dominic will be involved because he is accompanying us on the trip and will be a first hand helper in many ways. Angelo will be his joyful self. Francesca has been preparing for Julianna for some time now. Since Francesca’s gift is foreign languages, we will need her to be our number one communicator, even learning some Russian to assist in the transition.
I am sure there are more ways that we can involve our children. It’s almost like getting a new baby, which we are very familiar with in our family. However, we recognize that Julianna has many independent skills that babies do not - she can eat by herself, dress herself, use the potty by herself, drop-kick a ball, get someone’s attention, say “Momma” and “Dadda” - She can walk and run. She laughs and knows how to fool around. If anyone reading this blog has had experience with adding an older child to their family, we would welcome your suggestions and comments on what worked for you.
Knowing the Licata kids, they will all pitch in and look for ways to be a part of this joyful experience.
I am sure there are more ways that we can involve our children. It’s almost like getting a new baby, which we are very familiar with in our family. However, we recognize that Julianna has many independent skills that babies do not - she can eat by herself, dress herself, use the potty by herself, drop-kick a ball, get someone’s attention, say “Momma” and “Dadda” - She can walk and run. She laughs and knows how to fool around. If anyone reading this blog has had experience with adding an older child to their family, we would welcome your suggestions and comments on what worked for you.
Knowing the Licata kids, they will all pitch in and look for ways to be a part of this joyful experience.