Loving Life

Mara has been enjoying all of the wonderful birthday presents that her new friends and family gave her.  We are still enjoying the helium balloons, most especially Dora!  She loves Dora, kissing it and taking it with her everywhere (including the potty).  Even better:  her Nona gave her a backpack that she wears while walking with Dora and all of us singing the Dora "backpack" song. 

Opening presents is almost as fun as the presents themselves.  She rips through the paper and says "ahhhh" when she sees every gift.  

Even with her love of Dora (thank god for the TV DVR), she hasn't forgotten her love for Elmo.  Thanks Auntie Janelle for her tickle-me Elmo!!

She sure does love her Elmo.

Showing off her new Minnie Mouse PJ's and tutu - thanks Auntie Denise! 

She is going through different growing phases quickly.  This past week she has been very loving, asking for kisses and hugs constantly, which we think shows how attached she is becoming to us (a good thing!)  On the flipside, she also does not want to be alone, crying when we leave the room, making bedtime a little challenging.  The other night she cried and screamed so loud that she lost her voice!  We received some advice from our social workers and friends to put pictures up of us in her crib and to patiently reinforce that we aren't going anywhere.  That seems to be helping a bit (or maybe her voice is just tired).   That said, she said to expect attachment challenges all of her life. 

Here wearing her new glasses and mod dress while driving in the car to her first play date!  She is giving her Mom a run for her money on fashion trends.

Here playing with her new friend Alessia.  The playdate was a fun and interesting experience.  It's clear that she did not really play with other kids in the foster home since it doesn't seem to come naturally for her.  We hope that preschool (which starts on Oct 3rd) will help he with socialization.

Alessia is four, so you can see how much Mara has to catch up in growing! Both girls seemed to enjoy the visit and their Mommies are planning another visit.

Here wearing her new hello kitty rain jacket and umbrella that her Nona gave her for her birthday.  Now if only the rain would come!?

And here trying on a warm winter coat, also from her Nona.  Uh, is she sending us a subliminal message to come visit her in Detroit?

And last but not least, Mara visiting the beach in Santa Cruz.  Visiting the beach and running her fingers through the sand is quickly becoming one of her past times.  We take it as a sign to plan our inaugural trip to Hawaii!