As I reflect on this past year, I can't believe it is has gone by so fast. When we were waiting for Kerri, it seemed time stood still. And ever since she joined our family, it seems time is now on fast forward constantly, sometimes at warp speed.
This year, Kerri graduated from occupational therapy and started gymnastics. She became a Brownie circle leader in her third year of Girl Guides. She learned how to use her asthma inhaler by herself and she gained independence (and the confidence to attend meetings without Mom waiting in the wings). She joined the choir, and danced in a play. Kerri took cooking classes, and began reading full chapter books. She created and completed her first bucket list (in Toronto). She learned how to deal with her dyslexia and learned how to write letters and numbers correctly. And Kerri spent quality time with friends near and far. Kerri became a powder monkey, and received her pirate name "Wee Lady Thunder". She learned to knit, tie shoelaces, zipper and button clothing by herself. And she no longer lets me pick out her clothes. Kerri learned more about Judaism and Catholicism. She learned that love has no bias. And she started third grade with an IEP and the support of awesome teachers. Kerri started to learn cursive writing and keyboarding skills (not taught at school, to my surprise). And she outgrew Scooby Doo and became a One Direction, ICarly and Victorious fan. Kerri decorated her room with posters, and decided she wanted to learn how to swim (so she took a few lessons). She visited several museums and learned more about the things that interest her (mostly rabbits, spiders and dolphins). And Kerri decided boys are gross. She learned all about sexuality, anatomy, and puberty. Which is why she thinks boys are gross. And this year, Kerri dedicated herself to doing charity and random acts of kindness.
I could go on, but you get the picture. It has been an amazing year of growth and change for Kerri - and for us. Our dream to become parents was fulfilled when Kerri was placed in our arms in China. And it has been anything but boring. We have watched our daughter continue to overcome some pretty big challenges, and grow into a beautiful, smart and funny young girl. She is 8 going on 21. But she will always be our baby. Adopting Kerri was the best thing we ever did.
So goodbye 2012. I can't wait to see what life with Kerri will be like in 2013.
Life with Kerri wishes everyone a safe, happy, and healthy New Year!