Day 18: Slumber Party

Well, this Saturday was a first. I was staying over at my sisters and it eventually came time for the kids to go to bed. Josh however had different plans. Remembering that my sister had promised that he and Emma could sleep downstairs with me and have a "Sleeping Party" the next time I stayed over, he nicely protested when it was time for them to head upstairs. Keeping her promise, however, sleeping bags, pillows, favorite stuffed animals, and sippy cups were all piled into the family room for a Peanut/Auntie sleepover. It was so much fun. I was amazed that once they fell asleep (which didn't take them long) they were out and there wasn't a peep out of them the entire night.

I, on the other hand did not behave as nicely. Sure enough, in the middle of the night I let out one of my ear shattering screams (don't ask me why I do this, I have no idea, its part of my charm I guess : )  ). I rarely wake myself up when I do this, and this time was no different, fortunately I didn't wake up my fellow "Sleeping Party" either!

Day 16: The Importance of Compassion

A couple months ago I started sponsoring a child through Compassion International. I was able to choose a little 5 year old girl from Peru. The second I saw her photo I just knew God was leading me to help her and show her the love of Christ through sponsorship, letters, and prayer.

Compassion International is an amazing ministry which was founded in 1952 resulting from the despair of the Korean War. Starting in South Korea and aiding 35 orphaned children, Compassion has extended their efforts into 24 countries with more than 950,000 children. With a contribution of only $32 a month Compassion is able to provide your child with educational opportunities, health care, nutrition, life-skills training, and opportunities to hear about the gospel. But also and just as important, a sponsored child is given hope, encouragement, "and an often-neglected message that they matter." Its hard to imagine that only $32, on average the cost of a single shirt from Old Navy, or only a couple of drinks from Starbucks, can make such an enormous impact on a child's life.

This sponsorship program is key in aiding children all over the world, however, I never imagined how much I would get blessed in return. Just the other day I was so excited to get a translated letter from Lady (the little girl I sponsor). The letter wasn't very long, but she told me about her family, her favorite color, the school she goes to, and how she loves dogs. But most touching was how she ended her letter with "a big hug and many kisses. May God bless you!" What a wonderful, unexpected blessing! 

Day 14: Karen, Chloe, and Some Elephants

This weekend I had a wonderful time over at my good friend Karen's while her hubby was out of town. As usual, I always have a blast with Karen and munchkin Chloe! We had a great time chatting, having a Heroes marathon (watched 13 episodes, and now I'm totally addicted!) and having some yummy wine and snacks. We also took a field trip to Brookfield Zoo! I haven't been to the zoo in years! I felt like a little kid looking at the kangaroos, bears, penguins, and of course the adorable elephants! It was such a wonderful time, thank you Karen and Chloe!

Day 13: CMYK

This past week I had the awesome opportunity to go on a press check for the WCA catalog with my good friend Sue. We left Tuesday evening for Wisconsin and stayed until Friday morning. Having never been on a press check before I learned so much and really appreciate all of the knowledge that Sue, Lisa, Steve and others passed along to me about the printing process and what things to look for while at a press check. Although it was tiring, I really enjoyed the experience and look forward to possibly going again. Weeee!