We are not the type to get much into holidays, of any sort. Birthdays, Labor Day, Christmas, Mardi Gras, you know, all those days that keep you pushing forward. We're of the sort that try to appreciate and celebrate certain truths woven into the thread of our lives. Not that we're against holidays, or those that chose to celebrate the traditional way, we just subscribe to a different way of celebrating. As the years go by, we have noticed time gradually increase in speed. We have found ourselves asking the questions, "What ever happened to that year 2005?" and "How were we used to impact others for the glory of God in 2006?" For that reason, we have sought to look back on a year's worth of memories and reflect on a month by month basis. We see how events and people have come into our lives and shaped our minds and judge more objectively their impact. We also look ahead at what this next year could be and what we should resolve to make different. More than resolutions, I would say we set goals. We do not start the year at where we want to be by the end of it. Slow and steady wins the race. Our main goal this year is to learn more.
Side note: If you ever need encouragement to savor this moment, check
this out.
We ran out of diapers while visiting Mama Vivi, but luckily we found some Depends to use in the meantime. Eli is growing and learning much! He uses sign language for "more," "please," "thank you," "play," and "all done." He is learning the names of objects such as moon, duck, boat, bird, fan, and fish. He still loves to throw balls of all shapes and sizes.
I love that necessity is the mother of all invention. Eli has found his own teething product. He loves medicine droppers. He has always enjoyed playing with cylindical objects, so add one with a rubber top for teething and we have a match! It has become increasingly hard to snap shots of him smiling, so here are the precious few.
One whole year. So many memories. Hopeful future. Happy days. You enrich our lives.
Eli and Jay showed up in uniform! They are so lucky to have one another! Mrs. Linda's home is filled with love and laughter for our little one. Thank you, Jesus, for blessing us with Mrs. Linda during this special time in our lives.
Better than Santa--Eli came to town! Our class had a special surprise when Eli walked through the door. My students were able to meet my little boy. It doesn't get any better than that. All of my favorite children together! Thank you, Mrs. Linda, for that special blessing!
All over the place, would be the correct answer. Eli has done much growing over the past few months. Teeth, hair, bones, verbal--the list goes on. He is having a blast with toys and people. He even has his first crush: Isabelle, Mrs. Linda's third child. He lights up in a special way when she comes around. 
