My two little bunnies...

It's hard to explain where the last six years of Claudia and Eloise's life has gone. The beginning was such a whirlwind with their early birth and weeks of hospital stay. Matt and I spent the first year waiting and watching to see how Claudia's damaged brain was going to hamper her abilities. It was difficult. The memories haunt me just enough to not take one day of their lives for granted.

We worried about everyone noticing Claudia's weakness. We worried about people feeling sorry and babying her. We worried about people asking "What's wrong with her?" We worried about her ever walking. We worried about her being different from Eloise.

We wanted the two of them to be the same, have the same opportunities.

Easy enough as it was to dress them the same, the differences were growing.

And never did we anticipate Eloise was going to be jealous of Claudia's: special attention, special equipment, special help from mom and dad, but she was.

Our little Eloise needed attention and specials too.

They will most likely always have a desire to be the other twin, despite what we do. Even though, we have tried to include Claudia in regular activities and Eloise in special activities.

I am proud to write that they are each other's best friend and biggest confidant. It is amazing when I overhear Eloise very easily and maturely explain Claudia's cerebral palsy. Eloise has without a doubt been Claudia's biggest supporter, especially in the quest for a canine companion.

They love to have each other's support and care very deeply for one another.

What more could I ask for, really?

Making separate birthday cakes is easy.

Allowing them to grow into different is more difficult.

It's one thing to accept that they are indeed different because of their interests. It's another entirely to realize that Claudia's body is limiting her opportunities.

In contrast, Eloise is flourishing in gymnastics.

It suits her and she's good at it.

Claudia is trudging right ahead in therapy. Trying a new walker as she is finally growing out of her first one. She is bright, sweet, and so precious. I want so bad for her to be included in everything... but they are two different little ladies and different is good too. I do miss the days of the differences being pink or purple bunny hats.

Good to be SIX!

Happy St. Patrick's Day to Ya!

Italian Fashion

Couldn't resist posting the two models sporting their new vests from Italy. Late last week arrived these early birthday presents from Melegnano. Bellissime!!

Saint Louis

St. Louis means new adventures for us but also some old favorites. Claudia was lucky enough to see her Godmother, Brenda. Brenda and her family spent an evening with us, playing and catching up.

The Science Center had a very cool exhibit of DINOSAURS.

"ROAR" says Vincent.

The big girls learned about DNA and solved the case of a missing dog.

Julianne and Vincent played Plains Indian in the Discovery Room.

Most importantly, Claudia attended her appointment at Washington University with Dr. Brunstrom-Hernandez. It is a long trek for the whole family to take but certainly one unique for Claudia to have this level of expertise and role modeling.

Claudia's number one question.....

"From your experience with your patients would it be beneficial for me to have a companion dog?"...

more to follow.

Not Alone

Maybe it's those special little details that sisters share that had me craving a sister. Whatever the reason, I count myself blessed to have shared the sister experience in Italy. Here's to those little known facts: ANNA

I love having little reminders of you right here in my house!

Skating into March

The girls did fantastic skating at the Recreation Center in town. Both keep up for an hour and enjoyed every minute!