Monday, August 29, 2011

it makes your heart smile...

We have been preparing packages to send to our friends in Ethiopia to help them during this difficult time.  As we were putting things together, Margo was trying to figure out what she could do to contribute.  At the same time, I was planning the team picnic for Anna's softball team and getting things ready for that event.  A light bulb went off in Margo's head during this planning frenzy and she decided she would make hair ribbons to sell at the picnic and she would also sell some LOVE bracelets Aunt Bridget had made for her students during their study of Ethiopia.  The money she made from her "store" she would to use to help pay for school for the street girl Shawn and I met during our visits to Addis.  Margo made business cards, receipts and signs to prepare and let everyone know what the money was going towards.  Anna sent a text to all her teammates asking them to bring a buck or two to the picnic because Margo would be selling some things.  I was so proud of all their efforts!  Well, "Margo's Gifts"  was a huge success and Margo made $35!  Through the generousity of the team families and Margo's hard work, she is able to pay for a month of school for Sahara.  My heart is still smiling!

first day of preschool....

First day for Anna, Emme, Kate and Margo.
Ahh, the moment has finally arrived!  The moment when I can count on 6 hours a week without the constant barrage of questions, demands and activities that come with having five girls.  Now for new parents, this may sound heartless.  But for those of you who have older children, I'm guessing this sounds all too familiar.  
Last week we started high school, middle school and elementary school.  Today, Mekdes starts preschool and is so excited she could burst.  What made me burst was what happened last week at our preschool orientation.  As Mekdes and I were exploring her classroom, a young girl entered the room with the most beautiful braids in her hair.  Since we are a multicultural family, I tend to zone in on any minority child we see in hopes of  befriending them and adding color to our very white world.  I immediately introduced myself and complimented the mother on her daugther's beautiful hair.   Now comes the glorious part...this woman and her husband are ETHIOPIAN!!!  What are the odds that we would find an Ethiopian family right here in our home town?!  I thank God for this gift and look forward to forging a friendship with these people who were put in our path.  Yahoo!  
Look at me!  I have a backpack just like my big sisters!