Family Dinner Week and Fall Festivities

Last night, we had family dinner night at my daughters' Montessori. It was catered by a local Italian restaurant. We had a nice time enjoying the good food and company. I was able to meet some of my daughters friends as well as their parents. On Friday, Big Sister's kindergarten class will be hosting a Thanksgiving family feast with another meal, and a concert performed by the children. I love this time of year with all of the special festivities. We have many eating events in my school as well, including a weekly Wednesday breakfast. Two teachers sign up each week to present their special breakfast to the rest of the team. It's something we all look forward to, and helps us get through the week.

Blankie, Blankie, I love you!

When my two-year-old was asked what she is thankful for, she told her teacher this:

1) Blankie
2) Momma
3) Sissy

Once again, Blankie comes in first. Like Linus, the original Blankie Boy, Little Sister simply loves her fabric companion.

Celebrating Six!

We've been celebrating Big Sister's sixth birthday over the past few week and a half with a family party, kid party, and a mommy and daughter outing to see Madagascar II. Here are some photos from our fun time together. I think adoptive families have more celebrations because we missed out on so much before we got them. At least, that is the case with me. I love to celebrate every little occasion with my two beauties.

Under the weather

Sorry I haven't posted in a while, but last weekend, I got hit with a virus. My throat was on fire, my glands felt like the size of basketballs, and I have a cough. To make matters worse, I have had laryngitis now for four days. My voice is coming back, but still not there. It sounds like I have a little frog living inside. Today, is Big Sister's 6th birthday party. I will hopefully have some speaking voice by 2:30 p.m., and will write a more eloquent update later with photos of my big girl.

Happy Halloween!

Scenes from a library

We love going to the library. It's actually been one of my favorite places since I was a little girl. Someday, when I'm old, I want to work in a library, and be surrounded by books. I know it sounds crazy, but the library has always felt like a home away from home for me. I love reading! I love books! I wish I had time to read more, but with a full-time job and raising two little girls alone, I don't have enough time. Many of our playdates are held at the library such as the photo shows. The boy is one of Big Sister's best pals (Ian) and also featured is his new baby brother born last July.

A Prayer for Mother

My mother is pictured the second to the right. She left this earth nearly 3 1/2 years ago, and I still think of her and miss her each day. The photos shows her enjoying a happy family reunion. Mom loved spending time with family and friends. She was, and continues to be an inspiration to me. I only wish she could have been here to meet my youngest daughter, and my sisters children as well. The prayer below is dedicated in her memory.


For a Mother who has died

Dear Lord, relying on your promises to us, I turn to you in trust that my mother is with you and that she is enjoying your loving embrace. You alone know how she loved the best she could and how she faithfully endured the struggles that she faced. You know the graces you gave her and you know the grace she was for me and for so many. For all the ways she truly loved the way you loved her, please reward her, Lord. May she enjoy the communion of all her family and friends who are with you.

Lord, I know my mother still loves us who are still here on earth. I ask you that you might listen to her fervent prayers for us. Help me to grow into a new and deeper relationship with my mother now, as I long for the day when we will both meet in your embrace - freed from all that might have hindered our relationship on earth, knowing and understanding everything we did not know or understand on this earth.

I ask you this with faith in the resurrection, trusting my mother's love, and desiring that she know my love for her. Amen.

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