The picture says it all... if you've never met Sofia here are some words that would describe her: foot-loose, loving, cuddly, affectionate, LOUD, energetic, intelligent, manipulative, beautiful, exciting, hilarious. It was very much a surprise when we found out we were expecting Sofia. Things that went through my mind - - Stevie and Gabi would be turning 5 and 7 years old by the time this baby would be born; I had given away ALL my baby gear (crib, highchairs, bouncy seat, etc) about 1 month before I found out I was expecting. I wondered how we would handle 3 kids - emotionally, financially and from a time perspective. I was worried about "starting over" just when Gabi and Stevie had reached a wonderful level of independence.
Then I met Sofia - on March 20th, 2006. Born the same day (amazingly) as her big sister Gabi but 7 years later. I clearly remember the first moment I held her in my arms and really looked at her (it was a moment shortly after the birth when all the hospital staff had left the room and Steve had also stepped out of the room to talk to family members.) I looked at her beautiful blue alert eyes and the first thing that crossed my mind (seriously) was - omg, you are a genius. She just seemed so smart to me for a newborn! And I thought it was no small coincidence that Sofia means "wisdom." And every day since then she continues to prove to us just how smart (and smart-alecky) she is!
