My Girls

I am so in love with my girls.

Marisa is going to be 5-years old in March. What happened to my little baby Sunshine?? She's such a big girl now. Marisa is so amazing...and sure, I'm sure most moms, if not all, say that. Marisa's greatest gift is her ability to truly love and nurture (especially her sister). Today I realized that I am often so busy doing other things that I don't really listen to her as much as I should. I'm not kicking myself for doing this but concentrating on the fact that I realized this NOW, not when she's 16 and out-of-control. So learning this, I think I did a really good job of rectifying it by really listening today. I must say that Marisa really opened up to me and talked to me today. Not about anything earth shattering, but the fact that the lines of communication are open now, my goal is to KEEP IT THAT WAY! Lesson: If kids don't feel heard, they won't listen and talk to you. And why should they, I as an adult certainly wouldn't.

Danielle is going to be 2-years old in April. Gee, they really do grow like weeds. My little sweet Angel is growing up too and is really talking up a storm now. She is saying so many words now. Her communication, with words and without, is astonishing. It is a rare occurrence that I don't know what she is trying to tell me. She is such a gymnast, so happy, always laughing, so affectionate, so much fun and a true spirit. Danielle definitely has a mind of her own and she uses it. I think this is her greatest gift and it will take her far in life. So because Danielle has such a strong personality, and we all know her mom does too, it can be like butting heads. I have to admit that I give into her a lot more than I ever did with Marisa. Different kid, different personality - one is night, one is day! However, after her worst fall yet yesterday (and she's had many being such a busy girl and all), gave me a wake up call. Some battles are worth ME winning, regardless of her reaction to them (cry, tantrum, whatever). She fell yesterday and hit her head so damn hard. And it could have been totally avoided. I've learned to pick my battles with her, but I need to make sure to pick the ones that could get her hurt or worse. Lesson: As hard as it to see your little one melting down, when it comes to her safety, never give in.

I am so blessed for my two amazing gifts from Heaven.


--- Dalia