So, What Does Carly Think?

I think the second time through the adoption process the question I have been asked most frequently is, "What does Carly think?"

The honest answer is: Who knows what a two year old thinks? There are moments when I think she understands some of what is happening. Tonight, I asked her if she knew who Maggie was and she said 'Maggie is my sister'. So, I know she has the words right.

My pragmatic nature leads me to believe Carly is repeating the words, but doesn't really grasp the full meaning of a sister. After all, she thinks Dora the Explorer and Cinderella co-rule the world. I don't think she understands she will no longer have our undivided attention. I don't think she understands sharing is about to become a way of life. I don't think she understands that compromise and negotiation are about to become an everyday occurrence in her shared bedroom and bathroom. Of course, how could you expect a two year old to understand the impact a little sister will have on her life?

A sister will be a such a wonderful gift for Carly. I know I love my sister (I do hope she is reading this) and I couldn't imagine my life without her. In Maggie, Carly will have a confidant, a playmate, a foe and a friend sharing her room, her childhood and her life. What more could a kid ask for? Well, if it is Carly, I think she would ask for "swiper to stop swiping."

So, my answer remains, "I don't really know what Carly thinks." But I sure know what I hope she thinks. If not today, then someday.