Reading Day

Louie and I finally got to participate again in our public school district’s annual reading day after a 3 year break. We had a wonderful time reading a book about a sweet Newfoundland dog to two different classes of 2nd graders. Louie was as patient and loving as ever. The first picture is of Louie with his favorite teacher.  I'm so proud of my sweet boy!

3 Years Together!!!

November 7, 2014 was the third anniversary of our Family Day.  The wonderful day that Gary and I met our amazing daughter, Natalie Wanhan, in the Jiangxi province of China. I knew from the very first moment I met her I would do anything for Natalie including giving my life for hers without hesitation. Since then I have seen this beautiful (inside and out) child touch the lives of so many others. Recently I was asked on a form to list at least one strength of my child. I could have written for hours, but I just wrote the first few words that came to mind: focused, detail oriented, curious, compassionate and wise. When I read the words back to myself I seemed like I was talking about someone in their 40s or 50s. Natalie Wanhan is an old soul. It is mind boggling how a four year old girl is changing the world through her deep love and compassion. In the last 12 months I have lost Gary and three other friends. All four of those people had life altering moments with Natalie prior to their deaths. She inspires so many others, including me, to be their best selves. I am so excited to see what the future holds with this phenomenal child in my life and on our planet. 

When I asked Natalie what she wanted to do to celebrate our 4th Family Day she said she wanted to climb Pinnacle Mountain.  In the picture below you can see the sign that says it is a 1 1/2 mile trip that is steep, rugged and strenuous.  I wasn’t anticipating going all the way to the top because I thought Natalie would tire out before then, but she surprised me (as she frequently does).  Once when I stopped for a rest Natalie said “Come on Mama, we can’t stop until we get to the top.”  

 

On top of our little corner of the world.

Words can not express how much I love this child.  I am the luckiest mama!

After our hike Natalie wanted to wear one of her Chinese dresses and have dinner at a Chinese restaurant.  Happy Family Day to my delightful Natalie Wanhan.