First Experiences

It's very easy to underestimate how many experiences we would take for granted, that Lutaaya still hasn't experienced for herself.  In the orphanage where she lived, she would have washed using a bowl and soap.  The water is likely to have been cold or luke warm.  Since she's lived with me she has used the shower and been totally in awe of it.  Firstly she loves the fact the water is warm and secondly she loves how it magically seems to come from the sky!  This weekend Lutaaya had the chance to try something new and take a bath.  We haven't done this before simply because of time restrictions. It was lovely to know that we had the full morning to take time for her to play and wash in the bath. 

For Christmas she had some 'younger toys' for the bath.  Some play ducks and alphabet set.  So in they go, quickly followed by an eager little girl.

  I think this smile says it all really!

Latr on in the day we went down to my Mum's shop. Lutaaya has loved going there, but today she lay on the floor in front of the mirror.  It made me take a moment to contemplate the fact, she never had time to look at herself in the mirror.  This little girl, 9 years old, didn't have a clue what she actually looked like.  How sad is that?  She has been fascinated with mirrors since living with me and this is probably why.  She loves spending time doing her hair in the mirror and looking at every detail on her face. 

We also had our Christmas photos printed today to put in an album and give some out as gifts.  Lutaaya loved looking at them.  For the first time in her life, even though she has had photos previously, she could now recognise that this was in fact her.  She spent ages reliving each moment over Christmas, talking about it and smiling at herself.  When we went to choose some to give to people she made the statement, 'I don't know which iones to choose as they are all so beautiful.'  She isn't being vain, she is just realising that she is valued as an individual for the first time ever.  I loved it and smiled as she realised her inner and outer beauty.