Letters to Hootoo - One Year!

There's no way you're one! I would just like to say to you, Hootoo, YOU'RE WELCOME. Your life rocks.

Your first birthday party was held at COESPACE. It was such fun. Your friends were there, Amma and Afi too, Gram, Adam and Annie ... you had a blast. Sweet Sarita made vegan cupcakes that were DELICIOUS. It was a little man theme: mustaches galore! We dined at Dysart's later but you missed it:

I'm so proud of you. You make Dad and I so happy. You're happy, healthy, and any fussiness is short-lived. 

I'm also proud of me. Surpassed my goal of nursing you for one year. (TMI? Deal with it, kid). We're going strong. I celebrate not because breastfeeding makes me 'badass' (language!) or a super Mama, but because it was hard work and important to your health, and we managed it together.

You have stopped smooching me, and instead plant those open-mouth-sloppy-kiss on Dad. COME ON.

For about a month, I had a few phrases on repeat:

"We don't pinch Mommy's tummy." 
"We don't bang our head on windows."
"We don't bite people we love."

Now I just say in a booming voice, "DON'T you do it!" and you know that what you're doing is wrong (because you'll shake your head 'no', adorable!) and that tickles are coming your way. Tickles = distraction and opportunity to refocus on a different, more appropriate activity. Works every time. Plus your giggle is SO CUTE.

Big milestones: you walk now, eat with a spoon, hold a sippy cup, say a few words, point to things you want, and play hard with friends. You're curious, smart and brave. 

I love you, Hootoo. Here's to another great year full of adventures! We'll start after that nap...

xo

Yo Mama

Beyond My Self - A Plea

Update: Grace, Divine, and Patrick have been fully funded! Thank you to all that contributed and committed to their care!

As you may know, I sponsor a sweet little seven-year-old in Sierra Leone, an orphan who resides at a wonderful place called The Covering. It is all possible through a non-profit group called The Raining Season. Samuela is so special and important to our family. As is the cause. As is the community.

The Raining Season is hoping to care for three children that live with cerebral palsy. Enter Grace, Divine, and Patrick. 

 

Grace and Divine are currently hospitalized, but have no one paying for medicine or food -- which means they get none. All the hospital is giving them is a bed.

Care for these orphans means helping hands, and money. Because of the special needs of the trio, two caretakers will be responsible (day and night), for providing continual care. The financial cost works out to fifteen sponsors per child at $40 per month, much more than the 'standard' orphan intake.

Talk to your family. Rally with your coworkers. Consider monthly sponsorship or a one-time donation with intent toward these three babes. The donation form is online at http://bit.ly/14obejs, and in the Notes section write 'Grace, Divine and Patrick'.

Connect with advocacy@therainingseason.org, check out their website for more information, or let me know of any questions! 

June is my birthday month. You know what's on my list. Please please please.