A Gated Community

Okay, we are living in a gated community and John is constantly moving the gates up or down depending on where I am with the children. I am hopping over them most of the time with a baby in arms. My living room is strewn with toys from one end to the other, and those of you who know me well, know that really bugs me. My dining room table is a constant mess because John and I have managed to have every meal there with the girls. So the washcloth, bib, juice cups and other constantly used items are a permanent fixture.

Meals! Meals are difficult and if it wasn't for our good friend Jan bringing casseroles over I think John and I would starve. It is all we can do to feed the kids. We are still learning what they will eat and what they won't. The food must be there instantaneously or the baby screams with frustration, especially if Mama is in the kitchen getting her food. We have found that besides yogurt, Galina loves pickles, ketchup, blueberries, and pancakes. She is not very big on cheese, soup, or our bread. Valerie will eat almost anything I give her that is mashed up or tiny bite size pieces.

Nap time and bed time have been difficult. Both girls are having so much fun with Mama and Papa that nobody wants to go to sleep except us! We have a set routine and time, but that does not prevent the tears and cries. What works is to say good-night tuck them in with a kiss, and walk out of the room closing the door almost all the way. They will continue to cry, but not for too long. Soon we have our sleeping beauties, and mama and papa have some time to our selves.

We would say the girls have adjusted remarkably well. They visited Mt. View and met many of our friends their with big smiles and hugs. We have also brought them to our Shintaido group after their practice and they were absolute darlings with smiles, giggles, hugs and some good'ol group play. We have had friends over the house and they seem happy to see everyone. We are not worried about attachment or socialization in any way.

Galina is talking two word phrases in English and has use the sign for "more" . If she wants anything we give her the words to say and expect it from her. She always pulls through and says it. I am looking for the day when she does not have to be coached to do it.

Valerie babbles up a storm and we expect her to start off speaking English.