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P_B&J

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Wrapped In Dots Christmas

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Happiness Script Noir Save The Date

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the fourth

Today is the fourth anniversary of my sister's death. We let off balloons and shared memories tonight. The WHOLE lot of us. Mom, Dad, Sweetie, Middle and Mini Mann..also, me. It was good to be together this year for the first time since the first year. It's strange to me how each year's remembrance has been different and unique. We all watched the balloons float away into the sky until we couldn't see them anymore. It was really cold outside, so most everyone went in when the sight of them was lost. My dad hung back with me as I shared some secret memories and thoughts with the cold night air...and him. It was a special thing to share with him. Someday, I'll remember that moment when I remember him.

I miss you, Michelle. Still and again today like the first day.

The good news is that the grief cycle actually does a sweet thing over time. I didn't used to think that it would, but I'm encouraged having lived 4 years after she died that time really does make a difference. There is healing. The cycle moves much quicker to acceptance than it used to and it totally hangs out there too, for really long periods of time. And I still love her just as much and I still miss her. It just doesn't hurt inside like it used to.

oh em gee!!!

Today's my blogiversary!!!!

How long has it been now? 3 years? Seriously!? or was it 4?

It's hard for me to fathom the girl who sat in an office one afternoon and gave this whole thing a shot. I was so fearful at first and originally, I'd only shared the site with one person. My amazing Lisa.

I know the pickens have been a bit slim around here as of late, but it's November now and I'm hereby charged with not sucking as a blogger for this month. I'll be effortful to give y'all a little something during November. It might not be deep or insightful, but by golly, I'll give it a shot.

First day a'school! First day a'school!

On Monday, we started back to school for the '09-'10 school year. Each of the kids had their own reaction and preparation for this epic event.

I had my own.

Actually, mine has been brewing for a couple of months. It all started with me keeping up better on the laundry. It no longer migrates from the dryer to the couch for an endless period of time. I actually fold it when it comes OUT OF THE DRYER. Don't be jealous. Get all crazy...trying to be awesome like me with this mad skill...oh wait. that's right. You're already a grown up and this concept isn't new to you.

Anyway!!!!

I noticed a couple of months ago that the smallest's pants have gotten to be about the size that require the tri-fold and the middle guy? his pants have moved all the way to the quad fold.

THEN! On Sunday, I was over a friend's house and Mr. Middle walked up to me and I realized that I was almost looking up to him. Umm...WHAT?

Of course, in a tactical and completely grown-up move, we measured each other ON THE SPOT.

He's about exactly one inch shorter than me. I'm giving him about 3 weeks and he'll pass me for sure. *sigh* I'm not ready for this. :-) Meanwhile, I am equally, completely excited about this.

It's a pretty cool feeling as a mom to watch the babies grow up and become big and awesome. The Big and Awesome that Mr. Middle is bringing to the table right now is pretty much putting a HUGE smile in the deepest parts of my heart.