Sofia was on holidays in Poland from Mid June to Mid-August!

I sure missed my little friend! I spoke to her a few times on the phone. Once when I called, her Momma asked if she wanted to speak to Grampa. 'No', was her reply! When a three year old is otherwise engaged, the phone is a low priority. I knew in my heart that it wasn't that she didn't love me! Although we don't really exhange what you might call 'sophisticated conversation', it is enough for me to hear her laughing, and using the few words she has so far! She can say 'Grampa' now, but frequently shortens it to 'Pa'. That's Ok by me -- at least she knows who it is.

The area where they stayed was at a seaside resort with beautiful sandy beaches. You can see the beach in the background of this photo of Sofia and Klaudia, a girlfriend she made over there, who lived close by. It's hard not to be Sofia's friend when you meet her -- she is so cute and smiley!

This photo was taken in a beautiful garden.

On Saturday, August 20th, 2005, Ups & Downs, the Calgary Down Syndrome Association, held a picnic at Rotary Challenger Park -- a brand new and beautiful park designed especially for children with special needs. All of the playground equipment is designed to be readily accessible and easy to use by children with all forms of handicaps. Even the ground surrounding the play area is of a special rubber compound. As well, all of the supports for the playground equipment is covered in rubber to prevent bruises, bumps and scrapes.

In the picture below, Sofia and I were taking a break. She had some chips, I had a burger and held the balloon!

My favorite photos are those which show Sofia and me together. I always call them 'Happiness Is Being Together' and it's so true. I always feel good when I can spend time with her, and she seems to feel equally good.

The slide is accessed by ramps, steps, and two kinds of ladders depending on what sort of challenge the child can accept. The actual slide is made of rubberized rollers which give the children's behinds a good massage on the way down! Sofia sure enjoyed the ride!

Even the swing was especially designed with springs at the top to soften the ride, and with rubber-coated supports to prevent bumped heads. The seat is designed and set in such a way as to hold the child in without the need for restraints.

Although she has no formal art education, other than what her Momma has taught her, I was greatly impressed by Sofia's art -- her choice of canvas, colors, and bold colorful strokes made me terribly proud of her abilities!

Sofia really has a good time anywhere she goes!

The Rotary Club deserves mention here, and I offer them thanks on behalf of myself, and all the kids who will have the opportunity to avail themselves of the park resources. What a wonderful contribution to our city! Thank you Rotarians!