We just had the privelege of hosting the African Children's Choir. They performed at the Church on Wednesday night and then we billeted 3 girls plus a chaperone for 2 nights. This is our 3rd year hosting and I must say - it is nothing but pure joy. These kids are the most polite and the most genuine children around. They bring perspective to me as I look at these young (8 years old!) girls and understand what they have seen in their short lives. The loss of parents, war, poverty, hunger. And the contrast to what they experience during their 14 month tour - education, laughter, Disneyland!, TV appearances (my daughter is SO jealous - they met Ellen Degeneres!) Not to mention seeing the US and Canada. Wow.

If you get a chance. Go out of your way to see this choir perform.

Today we celebrate another birthday in our family. My Mom, my beautiful mom, is 63 today. And yes, she doesn't mind if I share her age. I wouldn't either if I had her outer and inward beauty going for me! She's been an amazing role model. I'm very grateful for everything my mom is. And today, well, we are going to spoil her rotten and give her a great day. I think her only sadness today will be that she is missing her son and grandson. And that too is alright - because part of her gift this year is flying down to Tennessee to visit them. Doesn't get any better than that!!

This is such a great pic of my niece Kaitlyn. They ate b-day cake without utensils and while a couple of the girls tried to stay clean - Kaitlyn just dove in 100%. Tell me she doesn't just make you smile.

And a great day - weekend was had by all. We are officially tired. Phoebe's party was great - lots of crafts and we set up our tent in the living room and lit a fire in the fireplace and made s'mores before bed. Very fun.
Thanksgiving was just as it should be. Food, family, fun (beat my parents for the first time EVER at crib!) It turned out to be a beautiful day - one of the few we have had in recent days so we went for a family walk down to the river and then walked over to my parents for turkey dinner. What a treat.
It is only natural to reflect on what you are thankful for and what else can I say except for the gift of life. I'm here - still enjoying my family and friends and a million other blessings that pass through virtually unnoticed.
Please pause today. Think about the truly important and be thankful.

And look at these pigs - I mean girls - how can you NOT be thankful!!

My baby turns 11 today. Happy Birthday Phoebe Jane. There isn't a day that goes by that I don't thank God for the gift He gave me in this little girl. And right now, I've got to rev up to prepare for one humdinger of a party.