Thursday, September 2, 2010

WOW, WHAT A SUMMER!! Where did it go? Just as we were enjoying all of the fun that summer brings, the time has come to re-adjust to our fall schedule. This summer felt different than those spent as a family of three. Tia’s addition has added a whole new flavor to our lives. Tia has a contagious smile and her little body is FULL of personality! It is a miracle the way she has created her own spot within our family and has brought so much joy to the atmosphere of our home.

This summer we spent a few days at the beach in July and a week at the beach in August. Both trips went well. Kassidy and Tia both enjoyed the time with our extended families. Tia loves the water and drives us insane at the pool. She has NO fear and requires us to stand guard at all times. She loves to go underwater and we never know when she’s going to jump in. Time at the pool was not as relaxing for the adults but Kassidy and Tia loved it.

Tia also loves playing outside. She enjoys the sandbox, swings set and trampoline. We have found her trying to ride big sis’s scooter and she loves the Barbie jeep. She likes to play in the garage with brooms and whatever else she finds that is interesting.

We have recently started speech therapy and Tia’s vocabulary has increased. We have all been accustomed to a constant chatter of Elmo and Cookie Monster. She talks about her Sesame Street friends often. It’s funny how the word ELMO seems to come easy for her. Tia also likes to use the word “sit” as she tells everyone she interacts with to “sit”. It doesn’t matter who you are, Tia wants you sit and stay for awhile.

We had the nice opportunity to visit with a family that traveled with us to China to adopt their daughter. We caught up with them while we were in South Carolina on vacation. It was pure joy to see the girls together. I had to think of this time last year when they were both without their families. Oh how things have changed for all of us! Visiting with our China travel friends is very special to us and will be important for Tia as she grows and matures.

Now that the school year has arrived Tia is experiencing a change of pace as Kassidy is in school during the day. Kassidy spent lots of time during the summer entertaining Tia and playing with her. I took Tia to her first story time at the library today. She enjoyed herself and sat quietly for half of the story. The rest of the time she wanted to walk around and talk to the other children. Maybe she’ll get the concept more the next time! She loved the craft and enjoyed using a glue stick to make a paper backpack.

It has been so fulfilling to experience the changes to our family as Tia has started to grow roots here with us. We have been giving her love, nurture and care. She’s been giving us the beauty of her heart. Blessings to you!