Daddy's Girl...

Clara and her daddy are at the daddy daughter dance tonight.  It was something that Clara really wanted to do.  She saw the advertising for it at the rec center and decided that she wanted to go.  I was a little surprised.  Clara does not usually volunteer to do much of anything!  She is very shy, unlike her sister...  

So I wanted to make her night really special.  I took her to our favorite second hand store to pick out a dress, knowing that they always have a plethora of party dresses for under ten dollars.  So surrounded by choices of velvet, tulle, and lace, this is what she chose...

She liked it because it looks like it is a "vest dress".  I tried and tried to convince her to get something a little more daddy/daughter dance like, but she was determined that this was the one.  As we were getting her ready she confided that she liked this dress because her teacher at school likes to wear vests, and she thought that Ms. Debra would think this was a good dress since it's like a vest.  Knowing Ms. Debra, I think she would approve of Clara's choice.  :)  I actually think she looks quite nice!  Not what I was thinking, but very Clara.  

I also got Brian a corsage to give to her.  She was in awe of it.  She is quite fascinated with roses right now, so I had her a tiny wrist corsage made up.  She was very proud.  Of course Brian gets the credit for giving her the flowers, but that is really what moms are for isn't it?  Working the behind the scenes magic to ensure dreams come true.  When I snapped this picture she was still looking at Brian as she couldn't quite believe that she had her own roses!

Here is the happy couple on their way out the door.  Clara wanted Brian to wear his "getting married" clothes, but seeing as we had no tux in the house she had to settle for khakis and a sweater.  I am hoping they have lots of fun!

And in case you are wondering, Ruby was invited but politely declined, stating "I am a mommy's girl!"

God is good.  All the time.

The Little Things...

All is well.  Crazy, but well.  I miss having my husband around.  It's hard doing 90% of things by myself.  He is doing very well in school and at work, but it's been 20 years since he has been a student, and school is HARD for him.  I'm proud of him, but it's still really hard.  It is going to be a long 5 years.  However, I am thankful that Brian has  a job, and the opportunity to learn a new trade and earn a college degree.

Despite my current stress level, I am thankful for the little things.   Like Grandma Janice taking Clara to piano lessons on Tuesdays, and watching the girls on Fridays.  I'm thankful that Noah gets to hang out with his buddy sometimes for the whole weekend.  I'm also thankful that Leslie takes Matthew (and sometimes even Ruby) to church on Wednesdays.  I'm thankful for Tuesday night twirling,  which gives me a chance to chat with my sister, and other moms while watching Ruby do something that she loves.  

I'm thankful for half time team because it's fun, and all the kids LIKE to go.  Okay, it's mostly for the concession stands, but they do have fun.    I'm thankful that Ricky shovels the next door neighbor's driveway, which gives him somewhere to focus his energy.  I wish it would snow more!  I am thankful that he has a new friend, and is saving up his money for a snake.  

I'm thankful that I work with wonderful people, who allow me to rant and like me anyway.  I'm thankful for little league, and the hopes of someday really having a YNLLLNO.  

Most importantly, I'm thankful that I am able to remember how blessed I am, even when the going gets tough.  Sometimes I just need to remind myself!

God is good.  All the time.