It's All About the Timing

My favorite moment of our trip to New York had nothing really to do with the city itself. At one point as we were filing down the stairs to the train platform at Penn Station with the many other travelers, we had stopped moving as we waited for the front of the line to move out. Above the din of the black Friday bustle I heard Liliana's voice start to sing, "It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas..."

First of all- what a perfect moment for that song! And second, I was so proud that she was willing to sing like that around all those people. :)

Happy Thanksgiving!

We spent Thanksgiving in New Jersey this year with my family. We haven't been up that way in years so it was wonderful to reconnect with Grandma, uncles, aunts, and cousins. It was great to see a new generation playing together (just as rough as we were in my time).



Since we were up that way, Kaylon talked me into a day trip into NYC. We kept in short and sweet- we rode the train in (on which my uncle was the engineer!), walked to Times Square, saw Toys R Us, ate at McDonald's, caught a cab back to Penn station, and took the train home. The girls were impressed by the buildings, but Grace said that the city was crowded. Moira somehow got the idea that it was called "Bubble City" and yelled at anyone that called it anything else.
This was an ad along the train tracks. We couldn't help but take a picture!

It had been awhile, but we felt so welcome and loved, it was like no time had passed. I guess that's why it's called family. :)

Holiday Dresses

Happy Veterans Day!

Thank you to all those who sacrifice all to protect our freedoms- especially to my dad, a navy veteran! Grace made a card for him last night- I thought it would be nice to put on here :)


(note the American flag pinata, hehe.)

Why Do Parents Bother Buying Toys?

This is the toy she's supposed to be playing with:



This is the poster paper she found nearby and liked more (and got mad when I took it away):

The Essence of Grace

Parent teacher conferences were this week and at this new school 2nd graders and older are asked to participate as well. I was not surprised to hear how well Grace is doing in school, or how much her teacher enjoys her. But I was touched to hear just how sweet my Grace truly is. Two autistic children participate in the class part of the school day. Grace had told me about "P" once and how she helped him sometimes, but her teacher informed me the extent to which she does this. Grace not only helps "P," she volunteers to do so without being asked and picks him as a partner when there is a need. She tries to understand him, even though he doesn't talk much, makes him cards, and cheers him on in his assignments. No one asked her to do this. There was no reward dangled in her face. She happily helps however she can and tries to help "P" feel included.

While every parent is proud of their kids at every age, I am realizing that the pride is more poignant as they get older and make real decisions that make real differences in the lives of others. I had tears in my eyes as Grace's teacher conveyed all this information, knowing as a mother how "P"'s mother must every day hope and pray that her son will be treated well, despite his differences. I am so happy that Grace has chosen to be an answer to that prayer- to be an angel on earth.

Pop's Boat

We visited Pop and Grandma Brandi's boat for the day. We had a lot of fun, even though it was chilly. We explored the boat (it always amazes me how much they fit on boats!), fished off the back, and pretended to be captain. Can't wait to take it out when it's warmer!

I'm princess of the world! (actual quote)