Eldana's birthday

is only 4 days away! She is so excited she can hardly stand it. She's patiently watched many other people's birthdays come and go - she is so ready for her own celebration! We will be taking snacks to school that day (she's requested cupcakes and juice), going out to eat that evening and having a small party 2 days later.

For Eldana's birthday we will be donating to the Awassa Children's Project .
This organization serves children in the area of Ethiopia in which the Abigia and Eldana were living before we became a family. 'The Awassa Children's Project is an organization that promotes sensible, culturally responsible relief work aimed at assisting children primarily orphaned by AIDS, educating people in Africa's Sub-Saharan region about AIDS prevention, and offering a proactive approach towards the resolution of serious issues facing the region.' (excerpt from their website)
Although we are so blessed to have our children in our lives, we understand the tragedy that occurs in making any child an orphan. It is our responsibility to give back to the communities from which they came, and to support other children and families that are in need. This seems like a worthy organization doing good work in the community. If you are interested in donating as well, please do so. It's Christmas - time for sharing the love, giving gifts, caring for others, honoring God.... In lieu of that big screen TV you were going to get me, how about a donation instead? And Eldana really doesn't need any more toys (especially with Christmas coming a week later!) and would love to be honored on her birthday by a gift to other children in Ethiopia. Thanks!


Eldana's school sends out a newsletter every season that includes a letter from the priest. When I opened the newsletter this week, there was such a sweet surprise inside. In the first paragraph of his letter, Fr. Kevin had written "As I was thinking about all the things going on at this time of year and what I should write about to you, I noticed the snow coming down again outside and thought of Eldana, our dear student originally from Ethiopia. This precocious young lady is such a joy to be around. She reminds me to have a sense of wonder about the world and not to take things for granted, to be more inquisitive, to be happier, and to figure out a way to turn as many things as possible into a toy, a gift, or a party. I can only imagine what she makes of the snow, a totally gratuitous gift from God. With everything else going on, take a little lesson from Eldana - stop and enjoy the snow and this moment!"
What an aptly written description of her. Of course, I teared up reading it, and again when I called to read it to Matt (who choked up while driving). She is a great kid. It's awesome that others know it, too!


Tonight I am grateful for: Christmas secrets