When it is "Goodbye" and not "See You Later"

To the incredibly lucky person who now has Ree:

You have been given an absolute treasure. Ree is absolutely miraculous. She is one of the most beautiful, sweet, smart and kind little girls I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. She dances everywhere she goes. The last three months flew by way too quickly. I immediately felt the emptiness she left behind once she was gone. She was such a loud presence in my life.

Please, revel in and cherish the moments Ree gives you. She literally grows when she is being loved. Take the time to listen closely to what she is telling you. Sometimes her behavior speaks louder than her words. Sometimes she means the opposite of what she is trying to say--when she is angry she might be feeling sad. You might even catch her crying because she caught herself feeling happy. Be observant, be patient, be sensitive, and please, be gentle. Try to see the world the way that she sees it; it is such a pretty and simple place.

Ree is truly a priceless gift, and now she is in your care. She deserves the very best and more. She loves unconditionally, purely and honestly. Please, remember that when Ree is purposefully challenging you, she is only trying to discover if she can trust you. Praising Ree will help her blossom, and it is much more effective than punishing negative behaviors. Instead, make it point to tell her every day, "I am proud of you because...." She is brilliant and she learns immediately. She will follow safe and consistent role models.

Now that Ree is in your care, you have witnessed that smile. That ear to ear smile. Please, protect it and don't allow life to dim her sparkle. She is remarkable and you are the luckiest person in the world to have her.

If you ever need anything, and nothing is too petty or too large, please feel free to contact me at xxx-xxx-xxxx. I am proud of you for taking on such an enormous responsibility. I understand how much your life just changed. I love you and Ree loves you for it. You will have plenty of moments when you struggle. I promise you that when you do, Ree will promptly do something amazing to cheer you up. Focus on those moments.

Kiss her. Hug her. Celebrate her.

God Bless You Greatly,

Tiffanie