Celebrations

Mara experienced her first birthday party other than her own - her Granny's!  At first she was confused that we weren't singing to her but then quickly caught on (helping her Granny open her presents).

Mara is getting much better about eating on her own.  She makes quite the mess (thank goodness for Rosa who helps us clean each week) but it's incredible to think that she was being hand fed baby four months ago!

She is also brushing her teeth more, thanks to watching the other kids at day care and practicing herself.  We still need to take her to a specialist dentist since has "issues" with doctors.  Due to the malnutrition her teeth aren't the best our pediatrician says it's okay since it's only her baby teeth.  

At peace with Biko, playing in bed.  Biko has adjusted beautifully with Mara, realizing that she gets the attention so he gets as close to her as possible.  Now if we could just stop the meowing at 4 am in the morning?!

 

What more can a girl want than muffins and iPad Elmo counting game?  Yes! Singing the muffin man song while you eat!

What's a posting without Mara flaunting her great sense of style.  How many little girls do you know that can rock the rainbow leg warmer look?

This was Mara's first Halloween and it took her a while to figure out what it all meant (thanks to her friend Dora she started to understand quickly).  First came her appreciation for pumpkins (including the one her Mommy carved for her of Dora).  Then, she learned about costumes and candy.  Here dressed as Snow White at her school.

Here with another of her classmates at school.

Her school hosted a Halloween festival, complete with pumpkin patch, face painting and treats. 

Mara's favorite though was the parent who dressed up as Elmo - she fearlessly stalked him throughout the entire festival, demanding to have her picture taken with him!

At first we were going to pass on taking her out trick o treating, since we were afraid she would get scared of the decorations and massive crowds that swarm our neighborhood.  But, when we got home, Mara with her mind of her own, announced that she wanted to put her costume back on and go out!  Here Mom & Mara making their way out into the neighborhood.

Rocking her Snow White costume, complete with pony tails (which Mara calls "pone" tails) and Ugg's.  Too bad Mom had to carry her most of the way!

One final close-up of Mara, compliment of her Auntie Janelle.  She is such a happy kid!  Next week we hope to hear back from the county who are assessing her for special education.  Not only does she continue to have a voracious appetite for food, she also craves learning.  She loves her puzzles, A-B-C's and 1-2-3's.  We want to support her development and also keep her stimulated - hope to hear good things from them!