My name is Sandy and I am Mike's cousin from Buffalo. I asked Nita if I could make an entry on her blog.
From the end of August into the second week in September, my boyfriend, Dennis and I went out West for a vacation. While we were there, we visited quite a bit with Mike, Nita and the girls. I had last seen Raqi when she was 3 months old. She was adorable then and is so much more now. She has a smile that will melt your heart. To be honest, I was leary about going as I didn't want to upset her or throw off her routine.
Well.....when we first pulled up, Mike was holding Raqi outside in the driveway and when she saw us she started bouncing up and down in his arms and clapping. I realized then that my worry was all for naught. Raqi came right to me and gave me lots of hugs and kisses. I would like to think she remembered back to when she was a baby and all the cuddle time the two of us had shared.
It took her a little while to get to where she would curl up with Dennis but she eventually did. We left that evening and went to Las Vegas. While we were there, Dennis won a HUGE ball for Raqi and Gabby. Needless to say, when he gave it to them they just loved it. It was big, bright and bouncy – perfect for Raqi.
We had many fun times during those two weeks even though we were there on and off – we took a cruise and Dennis had a Navy reunion as well, so we were in and out. ….Along with the good times, there were some bad ones, I will admit. I shed many tears watching that sweet little girl get so angry and upset as she was so frustrated because she was trying to communicate a thought or wish to no avail. She tries too hard to get across whatever is on her mind, and when she can't - unfortunately she lets people know, as we all do at times.
But even when she is very angry or frustrated, I see her look at the person she is trying to communicate with: Mike, Nita, Gabby and even myself and Dennis, with true love and tenderness in her expression. Raqi stares you right in the eyes with such conviction and intensity she seems to be apologizing for her temper. She doesn't mean to hurt anyone at all. She is looking to all of us for help and understanding. We have to relay her message for her until she can.
I will admit with her limited vocal skills she can be a handful. I don't know how Mike and especially Nita do it day in and day out. But they are absolutely wonderful with her. Nita is never tiring – juggling work, a home (we all know how time consuming that is in and of itself), making sure Gabby Girl gets her own time, and trying to fight the system to get the help for that sweet innocent child. You have my sincerest admiration and respect, Sweetie. I don't think I would have the strength to do what you do day in and day out. In fact, I know I wouldn't. You are a very special Mom.
You all keep up with the amazing job you are doing. Mike - be strong and keep loving your girls. They need you. Gabby Girl – stay sweet and be the best big sister you can. Raqi – hang in there, baby. You will get the help you need. Mommy and Daddy will see to it. Nita – Don't give up. You keep fighting the system until you get someone to help you. You are her voice; speak it loud and strong. If you need help call me. I'll come and help!!!
You are my Heroes and I love you all very much.
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