Saturday, June 16, 2007

How do you know you're in love with your child?

When your heart dances because your child calls out for you & only you?
When you can't wait to have your child wake up & stumble into your bedroom looking for hugs & kisses?
When you can't wait to get home & hear your child scream in joy when you walk through the door?
When only you can bring comfort to your child with hugs & kisses?
When you drop your child off at school or camp & she can't bear to have you leave without just one more hug & a "have a good day mama?"
When your child tells you that you make the best French toast? Even though it's only microwaved French toast.

I could go on & on but there isn't enough time in my life. I'd rather enjoy spending my time with Erin seeing the light in her eyes & hearing the laughter in her voice. I just absolutely love being Erin's mother.

Sunday, June 10, 2007

Mama, where is "E" from?

Today Erin had a birthday party to attend in the afternoon. We ran into "E's" parents at the party store when we were looking for things for Erin's party. "E's" parents are just so nice & warm. They always have a smile for the children & something sweet to say.
When we left Party City, Erin asked me "Mama, where is "E" from? HUH!? So I asked Erin what she meant. She repeated her question in exactly the same way. At the same time, David & I both said "Florida." So Erin said "NO! Where is she from before Florida?"
AH HAH!!
I realized what Erin was asking. I said to her "Erin, do you think "E" is adopted because she looks like you?" And, of course, she said yes. (A little background - "E's" mother is Philipinno & is married to a caucasian man.) I then explained to Erin that even though "E" looks like her, she isn't adopted. I reminded Erin that "E's" mommy also looks like her. Then I explained that "E" came from her mommy's tummy & isn't adopted.
Oh! Mama, can I listen to music now please?

Sunday, June 03, 2007

Qualifying for the Yellow Belt

Erin started taking karate at school just under 3 months ago. I wasn't sure we should that we should attend the ceremony but in the end David & I decided that it would be okay. Mr. Richard, the instructor, told us that although Erin had only started a few short months ago, he was amazed by how much she really wanted this & how focused she is. Huh!? Who is he talking about? Surely not my daughter! Boy was I wrong. Erin made us so proud today when she qualified for & received her yellow belt.



Friday, June 01, 2007

Erin Graduates Pre-K at Temple Beth Am


Last night my beautiful girl graduated Pre-K! We had to be there with the children by 6:00pm. The program was supposed to start at 6:30 but didn't get going till 6:45. While we were outside wondering where Erin was supposed to be, her teacher the marvelous Miss Ethel came & took Erin with her to get ready. I cannot sing Miss Ethel's & Miss Monica's praises loud enough. They are 2 amazing women who are totally dedicated to teaching young children - not just their ABCs & 123s but also how to be good people.
As we waited outside, I got to talking with the mother of a girl who will be in Erin's camp bunk this summer & Kindergarten class come August. Michelle & I met last week at my office & got to talking. Anyway, it was nice to have someone to chat with while we waited since if it was only David & myself, a box of tissues wouldn't have been enough.
As we were seated in the sanctuary, I thought back to the day we received Erin's referral. That picture showed me a glimpse of the child who I had been waiting for all of my life - Erin. As I thought back, I realized that Erin was like a blank slate, a blackboard with no writing. Then I remembered the day we were joined as a family. Erin still didn't have a clue what was in store for her - a loving, supportive family & many friends.
Each year that Erin has been with us, I am always amazed by her. She is a beautiful, caring, loving child. If there is a baby around, she zeroes in on that baby. Her only concern is that the baby isn't lonely or doesn't need anything. In school, if a classmate needs assistance, I am told by Miss Ethel & Miss Monica that Erin is the first one up to help out.
David & I are so proud of Erin's accomplishments. The baby who couldn't sit up when we adopted her, now is on her way to flying through life.
Mazal Tov Chuchie! Mama & Dada love you - a whole big bunch, always & forever, no matter what!