Stop The Presses!!!

 LOVE, LOVE, LOVE how she smiles with her eyes closed, as if she's imagining every joyful moment will appear when she opens them and she can hardly contain herself.

I've been trying to find my writing groove this past month.  Between the flu, laryngitis, bronchitis, and now a cold all in the last month, surviving the week has been our main focus.  The kids have remained healthy until this week, with both girls catching a bad cold.  Sarah's pediatrician continues to be amazed with her.  She's gained 3 pounds since July and 1/4 inch tall.  She's added another tooth in an already crowded mouth, and her heart has no issues.  We will be going for eartube surgery in another week.  Another new for this mama and papa:) I know it's no big deal, but new to us.

 In the last week, Sarah's words have exploded.  After Trick or Treat, she said Austin and Addy.  She's begun saying her teachers'  names, told me to Wake Up, and told her class to Line Up.  Every day she is signing and speaking more and more, without prompts.  Every day we are celebrating these moments of our little girl.

Last night, I turned on the Christmas music. (I know it's early, but I LOVE it so much and it's a shame to only play it for a mere 30 days out of the year.)  Sarah climbed up next to Addy, cuddled, and hummed along. 

What a picture!  Sisterly bonds.  Addy had a sleepover last weekend, and Sarah walked downstairs at 6am, announcing her presence to the late sleepers by turning on all the lights.  Andy brought her back upstairs, but she only lasted another hour before she needed to join the party!

It's National Adoption Month, a time to celebrate those who have found families, and to pray for those who are still waiting.  Andy and I were talking last night.  Our lives have been changed because of this little girl.  She walks into a room, restaurant, or store, waving to one and all.  She melts their hearts, makes them smile, and brightens everyone's day.  And this mama loves when she comes running to me, once she sees me at school.

“The child must know that he is a miracle, that since the beginning of the world there hasn't been, and until the end of the world there will not be, another child like him.”  Pablo Casal


My Sarah...