Emily Louella is now 7 years old. We've been looking forward to celebrating her birthday since the last birthday in our family (Christmas Eve, or Benmas). The day began with Emily being serenaded in bed by Ben and myself. Abby joined in eventually, and then Isaac. The morning rush then ensued... getting dressed, hair done, shoes tied, backpacks loaded... you get the idea. Now, in our household, Ben is the master of breakfast. He rises early and prepares a full course meal for the whole family to eat together; grits, eggs, sausage, bacon, occasionally oatmeal, and cereal. But never does he prepare waffles. Until today. The Birthday Princess got her first wish granted with a delicious Belgian waffle topped with a pad of butter and drizzled with Mrs. Buttersworth syrup. We had just enough time to eat before the kids were off to school.

We wanted to continue to give Emily a delightful day, so we joined her during lunchtime at her school. We visited with her a bit, but mostly Ben and I were bombarded with questions by two of the most talkative first graders we have ever met. I was a tad disappointed by that, but Emily didn't seem to notice.

After school, I brought Em's cousin over to play with her as I created her special request dinner of tortillas, beans, meat, cheese, sour cream, lettuce, and tomato. I normally call it a taco, but tonight, it was all about what Emily wanted. This feast was then followed by a divine Oreo cookie pie (which I might just have to finish tonight!).

Then, the day's joy quickly fizzled. I, unfortunately, have become one of those mothers who are able to ruin birthdays. I am ashamed to admit it, but I've heard that truth sets us free, so I am determined to be honest about my poor behavior.

It seems that 7 o'clock is my 'Cinderella time'. Her's was mid-night where the magical spell ended and Cinderella was transformed back into a poor cleaning lady with mice for friends. For me, I am transformed into a tired creature that is grumpy, and yes, mean. You would think that on a day like today, I would be able to maintain some self control or keep an even temper, but no, I didn't.

So, my hope is that in sharing this, some light will be shed in a few hidden corners in my heart, and that next week on Isaac's birthday, another one won't be ruined.

Nephew

Today is February 3rd, 2009. My nephew, Jaden Nikolas Beaudry, made his entrance into this world yesterday evening. He is my sister's fourth, and the first of which I was unable to see and touch and smell within an hour of birth. Every other baby was born while I lived in Arizona. This time, I am in Georgia. I knew it would be difficult for me to not be there, especially since my sister and I are the very best of friends. I feel like I've missed out on seeing this miracle and sharing this precious time with Rayme. It's times like this that I long for my family, and wonder why I ended up where I am. If only... But I cannot go there.

So, Jaden, my precious nephew, I love you and am so happy you are here. I cannot wait for the day to have you grasp my finger with your tiny hand, or to stroke your head full of hair, or to just sit and nuggle with you. You are a boy created with great purpose, and are a treasure beyond imagination.

And Rayme, I miss you terribly, and I am so sorry I wasn't able to be there yesterday... I would have loved nothing more than to play with Sam, Bella, and Sophie-Anne while you labored away. I am so proud of you and of the amazing mother you are!

-H