Good morning! Because my kids didn't have school yesterday (the younger ones, anyway), today totally feels like Monday! Yikes! The week just started and I already feel behind a day! LOL! Our family has so much going on this week. Along with the boys' bedroom remodel, we are planning two birthday parties. Our youngest turns six tomorrow, and our oldest son turns 13 in a week and a half! Time really does fly by!
I know you probably came here for something crafty (and I will get to that, I promise) but I just feel the need to brag on my kiddos for a minute. I hope you don't mind indulging me. Some of you that have been long-time subscribers already know the journey my daughter has been on. In 2009 she had a brain tumor removed and has worked relentlessly on therapy ever since (both physical and cognitive). We home schooled her during the whole process, and while it wasn't easy by any stretch of the imagination, she was determined to not only gain back what she lost but to even excel. Fast forward to this year. She entered public school for the first time in her life as a sophomore in high school. At parent teacher conferences last night, we were told by ALL of her teachers what an amazing and exceptionally bright student she is. Her art teacher said that she is inspired by her, her english teacher said that she is a bright spot in his day, and her history teacher told us that she is one of the hardest working students he knows. In fact, her history teacher wants her to bypass his class next year and go straight into AP History. It was all DH and I could do to keep the tears at bay last night. To top it all off, we received her report card. She earned all A's and one B. That B was in math, and that is where the majority of her cognitive loss was (so that B is actually higher than an A in our eyes). We know first hand how hard Ali has worked for this, how many tears she has shed, how much pain she has endured (and still does), and how many prayers she has prayed. We are so incredibly proud of her.
Thank you so much for sticking with me today! Sometimes, my heart gets too full and I just have to let it out. :-)
And now for something crafty...
This is something I whipped up using Kim's new Promenade set! Speaking of Paper Smooches, did you see Kim's announcement HERE? I am SO excited! Her CHF images are what made me fall in love with her designs, so I cannot wait to see which ones she brings back! Her first "Kismet Collection" set called Forest Whimsy has officially been released today! I just received mine, and I have some me timed scheduled this afternoon where I plan to ink this CAUUUUTE set up! :-)
Well, I have certainly been chatty today! Thanks for listening! Hugs, Laurie


















