We have a couple more presentations this week....hopefully Ill be able to pull something better out of my closet this time!
It really does seem like the years have flown by- or perhaps its not wanting to admit that I too am getting older. I still feel at times like the 19 year old that handed you over to the social worker after spending 3 whole days as your "mom". Never will I forget the following weeks and months where I would be heartbroken but it was your mother that kept me afloat. She would call, send pictures- and I would have the opportunity to see you when I could. It was in these early years- that your mom became one of my best friends. I remember one trip that my dad flew you out to see me- in which I took you to Grandma Kathryns in CO. I know you dont remember that trip - you were only 15 months maybe? I remember having to fly with you, alone of course, and with all your stuff. No one told me how much stuff you have to take when flying with a baby! I was looking pretty overwhelmed im sure as many folks offered their assistance. However you were completely unfazed. You were incredible that whole trip and it was a memory that I cherished for years to come.
Another time was when your parents came to utah and let me have you for a few days- again you must have been 2 or so? I was in a tiny little apt and you had to sleep on the couch. I remember you calling out for your mom a few times, and I thought its okay- I can handle it...then you stopped calling for your mom. You started to call "Amee, Amee" and my heart couldnt take it and I brought you to bed with me.
You have had a wonderful family- a sister who adores you and always has. I have a collection of photos of Chloe holding a willful Noel in various stages of your life. You were doted on, and given everything I could have hoped for.
There was a time when I was pregnant with Elijiah you said that you hoped it was a boy, as you wanted to be my only girl.( I think you have cursed me!) But later said that you just hoped you wouldnt be replaced....Oh Noellie.
Later you realized how much your brothers adore you. Look up to you, and miss you. They look forward to every call, and visit and are equally as sad when you leave.
You are incredibly patient, kind and loving to them and are the best older sister anyone could ask for. Thank you for growing into the talented young woman that you are. Thank you for allowing all of your crazy family to be a part of your life. (because lets face it...we are a bit nuts) Thank you for loving Jonathan and adopting him as your "dad".
I look at each years pictures, I look back at your baby photos, and realize how lucky I am. To have time with you, to share in your accomplishments and to know that you are exactly where you need to be. It has always been an answer to my prayers to see the baby I loved and gave up- become who you are today. Happy (late) Birthday- Happy 14th!!!!
It was held at Trolly Square this year and despite the bitter cold, the night was a lot of fun. We got to bid on a few things in the silent auction( which we eventually were outbid on ) dine on some good grub,
Play some bingo and and socialize with some other parents. It had been a busy day...as in the morning it was Elijiahs birthday party, and seemed like the day never ceased to be a merry-go-round....
To cap off the evening we did a little bingo playing. Im not sure we won even ONE game however the folks handing out prizes gave us a few- wrapping paper, string and this box of lovely dish washing detergent. Have you ever heard of this brand? Yea me neither. We left in the middle of the live auction which would have been great to stay through till the end, however it was getting late, and the boys needed to be picked up. Besides not sure even I had the $ to compete with landing one of the fun items. (example- quilt made by 2nd graders was going for 800$ when we were leaving....) So till next year Our Lady of the Lourdes, and thanks for a great night!
We moved in with Grandma and Grandpa in the beginning of the year. You were sad to leave your friends, the ward and neighborhood. But with promises of the "big" house, the pool and hot tub, you were ready to embark on your 6 months in Ogden with a happy attitude. Things became challenging with Tristan on many levels and you stepped up time and time again on the long commute both going to school and coming home. Often Tristan screamed the ENTIRE way and you sat patiently beside him, helping me sing to him, feed him crackers, entertain or do anything I asked to ensure we would arrive home, or get to school on time. You were my life saver on more than one occasion.
You didnt have much time to make friends or play with anyone from the Ward...I blame that partly because we still spent the majority of time in SLC, but you made the best of things. As winter turned to spring and spring into summer,
We had more opportunities to play outside, swim and go to the park. I remember our trip to Great Grandpas funeral. I took you as a way to have some one on one time and also to keep me company. You were the greatest companion. It was a tough drive...I being sick on both the coming and going to San Diego and of course, once again, you were worried, caring and made things much easier. In spite of the sad occasion that led us to Southern California, I truly enjoyed our few days together. As I mentioned on the way back I eventually had to pull over
and rest, saying silent prayers that I would be able to continue on and get us home safely. It is in these moments, and all the moments when it counts that you Elijiah rise to the top. You remain, patient and kind, exhibit the attributes that I am most proud of you for having. Thank you for continuing to grow, in both being a normal fun kid, but also in the talents and blessings that our Heavenly Father has given you.
You are at the top of your class in all areas. The best reading group and testing high with all subjects. You hate to journal you say....but your teacher mentioned that you were the first to complete your 1st journal because you write so much! You always give 100% to things even if its not fun for you. I hope you continue with that, as it will serve you as you get older.
Your ready acceptance of others in your life is astounding to us. You may be slow to warm up but once someone has proven themselves to you, you are ever loyal. Im starting to see my little boy turning into a big kid who doesnt always want his mother smothering him with kisses and I realize its just the beginning. My hopes for you are to continue in this separation. Find your own path and figure out what you love. You continue to play soccer and enjoy it each season. This winter will find you on the slopes your beloved winter sport. You excel at whatever you do and Im very proud.
With the many family members you have, its always amazing to me how well you adapt. As we move on to our next adventure- moving to Draper- and with that a new neighborhood and ward- I know you will make friends, and continue to be a good example to others. This next year will be a big one, as you prepare to be baptised, and will grow up so fast! My birthday wish for you, is that you will continue to be healthy and happy and that this next year will bring you much joy!
All my love- always- MOM
The line at 5:30 pm
Inside the gallery waiting for the Q & A
Here she is!!!
Emily and I in line almost there!!!
And this is Missy- Ree's sister in law- it was funny I was texting Jonathan and Missy took my picture as I was looking up and making a funny face- I said" Its YOU! Missy! I have to take your picture!" She so kindly posed! fun stuff.
