Blakley's birthday party was so much fun! She had quite a few friends and family there- 32 total! We got the whole thing on video- which will be great to watch later! LOL...Surprisingly she knew how to open presents and didn't hesitate pulling everything out! Her excitement overflowed with each gift and she honestly loved every single one of them! She got lots of books, some very stylish outfits (thanks Aunt Linda and Aunt Hannah- you guys pick out very cute stuff), a playhouse from Uncle Nate and Aunt Beth, a red wagon from Grandma and Poppa Dave (and a silver dollar), a talking tea set from Grandma Donna, a singing elephant and doll (and money) from Grandma Oden, a rocking horse from Mimi and Paw, a savings bond and a UT outfit from Grandpa, diamond earings from Uncle Brandon...just to name a few things!
The best part about the whole day was the cake! Aunt Beth made a beautiful Winnie-the-Pooh cake, but Miss Blakley had her own sugar-free cake! She dove right in- smiling at the camera- and eating about as much of it as possible! She is a big "ham" when the camera turns on!
After the party, Jason had to leave for a tournament and was gone all night...but Blakley was so exhausted she didn't mind. Jason has been so busy with wrestling- traveling or being gone to Bristol every weekend...but we're managing fine. It's an adjustment, but as I've learned- everything is an adjustment. I am enjoying every minute with her right now- she will be grown up too soon. It's so hard to believe it's been a year since I had her. She changes everyday and makes me laugh when I need it most. Her spirit is so colorful- I am so thankful to be her mommy.
We're gearing up for the holidays- ready to start decorating! We'll spend Thanksgiving in Tennessee and Christmas Eve here, but we're heading to Aiken the day after Christmas!
Work is going good for me- my kids are really enjoying the literature circles we are doing this year. It's seeming to create interest in reading in almost all of my students! There are kids coming to me begging for the sequal to this book or that book, or asking for another book in the same genre they're reading...it's truly amazing! Of course, I am still searching for work in Bristol or Johnson City, but there has been no luck there. I continue to pray about it and am working hard at leaving it in His hands. A few years ago I would cry at the thought of leaving Maury because I was so comfortable here, but as the years have gone on...I realize that comfort is where I am...and that I shouldn't let a place make me comfortable- I should be comfortable anywhere. I know that a move is what's best for my family, and that is the most important thing in life.
Enjoy the second half of the week- and I wish you all a beautiful weekend!
Love, Amanda
