What a Week

I had to have the talk this week...Natalia is not the center of the universe and her sister needs a life too.

A four year old should not have to know that the world does not completely revolve around them and they are not the only focus of their family's attention. Sophia has had to learn this far to early. Most kids are in kindergarten when this realization begins and it is wonderful to watch their eyes open to the rest of the world. Natalia became a nurturer and was game to try everything. Because of her sister's illness, Pia has spent the past year becoming much older then most 4 year olds. She has become the little helper because it makes her invaluable to her family. The most mundane things like cooking dinner become much more interesting because Edgar and I need to think of ways for Pia to help without her getting burned or chopped up...she has become the official "pass the spices" girl...she has become the "duster" of the house(this is actually good as I hate dusting). Swimming lessons started back up this week and Pia almost didn't go because it was "too long". Pre-school is "too long". "Too long", we asked..."too long away from sissy" was the answer. Sissy needed her to keep her company and play with. Pia went Monday missed Tuesday & Wednesday went 1/2 day Thursday and missed Friday. She actually had a dermatologist appt on Friday, so I guess that doesn't count. But I had the talk with Talia on Thursday morning about her sister needed a life away from her. Pia needs her own friends and time to be a little sister. She needs Natalia to be proud of the things she is doing not be made to feel guilty about spending time away from her.

Soooo...in a move to give Sophia more time to be Pia...she is now part of The Stage Door Children's Theatre production of The Chocolate Factory. Yes, Paparazzi Pia(as she has been called) is now an actress. She is Ompaloompa #10, has 1 line and gets to sing the ompaloompa song in the show. Wednesday and Thursday afternoons are rehearsals and she has made lots of new friends, the "bestest" being another 4 year old Sophia...they think it's a hoot to call for each other across the room. The performance will be on Feb 28th and March 1st at the Fresno Auditorium Theatre. I have to sell 7 tickets(parent requirement). I think I can do it...LOL.

Natalia and I went to pick her up Thursday night and then to visit Talia's godmother. She was happy to get out and about but is still very scared about moving. Her balance is her biggest challenge. She is so much better then before the shunt but she does not see it all the time. As long as she is sitting down, she feels she can conquer a lot but the minute she stands the world tilts. She also knows her limits and lets you know when she has reached them. It is like flipping a light switch. One moment she is laughing and enjoying herself the next it's "I'm done let's go home now" and there is no arguing. You can see all energy has left her little body. She is excited about getting the port on Tuesday. She like the hospital as long as she knows it is only short term. She knows she is only spending the night and then going home.

Much love to you all,
Roni