Thursday, March 16, 2006, 4:44 p.m., C.S.T.~

Dear Donna~

I am sorry if I upset you in any way. I should realize that I am singling out two of the children when there are so many others vying for my undivided attention. Please do forgive me.

I can see why you are angry. I kept talking about Johnny's suffering or Ronee' 's accomplishments until you are sick of hearing about it. I guess it's because they were the first two to be adopted...I don't know why I tend to single them out, but I do.

I know it is wrong for me to do so, but when something good (or bad) happens to them, I tend to celebrate (or worry) and not think of the others. I guess I needed this butt-chewing because sooner or later, the other kids are going to sense that I am not paying as much mind to them as I am Johnny and Ronee'; when they do, it is not going to be prettyat all! I guess I might as well face the music--

I also think it is because Johnny and Ronee' have been with us the longest--almost 13 years; they came to us when they were but a few months old, and we have gotten quite attached to them. It is almost like they had been born to us, and we have been with them through out their development and through happy times and sad. We have seen them grow from tiny, helpless babies to very capable youngsters who have a good outlook on life, even when their life has been anything but kind.

I will try to mention the accomplishments of my other kids in future letters, but if something happens to Johnny or Ronee' that I feel needs mentioning, don't get mad at me if I do so. I know I have singled them out, and I am indeed sorry. I have been accused of this several times before, but I really didn't realize it until I got your e-mail today. So for that I thank you.

I will go for now; I suddenly don't feel like writing any more. Your letter of today really upset me. I hope you are happy.

~Louie. :(