My Christmas Present

You and your brother gave me a Christmas present this year...a mug and homemade hot cocoa with this adorable card.  Just loved it!

A Christmas Wish...

Religion is a hard subject.  Some people are very dogmatic in their beliefs, others are more flexible.  Your brother is already starting to question and wonder - he is open to the possibilities.

Grandma Bonnie has certain beliefs and feels compelled to share them with you.  I respect that.  Mama Laura has other beliefs and wants to share them with you but is still unsure of how to best approach that.  I respect that as well.  I don't necessarily share the same beliefs as either one.  That's okay too.  I expect your dad doesn't either.

The world is full of different beliefs.  I don't care if you are Christian, Buddhist, Agnostic, or Atheist, or anything else.  I just wish for you and Dylan to grow up to be kind, loving people who are open to the world around you.  People who are grateful and realize that not everyone has what you have.  People who help those around you.  Inclusive of others, not closed off.  People who value community and the natural world.  This is my wish for you. 

I and others around you are going to stumble as we navigate this process.  Please be forgiving people too.  I love you and your brother so very, very much.  You two are absolutely amazing spirits.  Thank you for sharing this journey.

Dylan's B-day Party

Today we had Dylan's birthday party at Englewood Park.  Everyone seemed to have a pretty good day.  Grandma Bonnie helped you chow down the wonderful chocolate cake Annie Potter made. Afterwards, you and Dylan got to go to McDonalds with Daddy and Grandma Bonnie for a bit.

Tio and Dori's Engagement

Today, Tio held a surprise engagement party for Dori and him.  Dori didn't know anything about it and her daughter's even flew in.  Boy was it crazy. We were asked to wear purple so you and Dylan both had awesome tie-dyed shirts on.  Tio approved for sure!

Later we received this nice note on Facebook!

Young at Art

Crystal and Eames joined the three of us at a place in Keizer called Young at Art.  For a flat fee, you get to do whatever art project your little heart can think of.  You and I made a bracelet with pipe cleaner and beads, you painted, you played with playdough and we made a rattle drum together.  All in all, I think it was a hit!

Hawaiian Festival

We all went to Vancouver, WA for the Hawaiian Festival today with Jawea.  It was fun and we had a wonderful picnic lunch in the park where it was held.  But boy howdy was I glad Jawea drove.  It was so darn hot.  We would have all melted in our car without AC!!!!

Mommy and Riley Time

After campout, Dylan stayed at Grandma Colleen's and Papa Bud's.  So, you and I got some one on one time together!

Last night, I picked you up from daycare and we had dinner at the tacqueria.  After that, we went to a concert at Riverfront Park. Tonight, you and I cooked dinner together and hung out!  I so appreciate getting to spend time with you.

I worry sometimes that you might feel short-changed so I like being able to make you feel special.