The World According to Anika. . .

We have had major changes in our house in the last few weeks.  Angie, our amazing au pair for the last year and 9 months left to return home to Mexico and continue her studies.  So, last Friday, Paola, a great new au pair from Colombia, moved in with us.  I was worried about the transition for the kids, especially Anika since she really hasn't had anyone but Angie watch her.  The kids have done great and accepted Paola quickly.  I keep reminding myself that they are 4 1/2 and almost 2 and that having them be excited about someone new does nothing to negate their love for Angie.  In essence, celebrating the new chapter is not dishonoring to the last.  Tonight while snuggling before bed was the first time I heard Anika talk about the change.  (Mister Josh was Angie's boyfriend here in the states)

A: "Paola, bye-bye"
Me: "No, Anika, Paola isn't going bye-bye, she's just downstairs.  Do you love Paola?"
A: "Yes"
A:  "Angie, bye-bye"
Me: "Yes, Angie went bye-bye.  Do you love Angie?"
A: "Angie, bye-bye"
Me: "Yes, Angie went bye-bye, but she will always love you.  Do you love Angie?"
A: "Yes"
A:  "Mister Josh bye-bye too"
Me: "Yes, Mister Josh went bye-bye too"

It was said with all the tenderness a little girl of almost 2 can muster, but proof that there is love in her heart for both the old and the new, Angie and Paola.  Angie, we miss you, things are not the same without you, and we will never forget you.   Paola, welcome to your new home, we are excited about your addition to our family and can't wait to see what the next year has in store.

Angie and the kids

 The kids attacking Mister Josh

Paola and the girls today