That Mom.....

Oh this amazing girl!
She is such a joy in our family. There are no words to describe her bravery, her will,
her love of others, her loyalty, her infectious laugh, and her amazing heart. It is
my true honor to be one of her mothers. Just last night we were laughing so hard
as she was showing me dance moves I should be doing instead of my own. I am
really not sure my moves can be called dance moves
but she was quick to try and help me. At one point she said told me that Justin Beiber
was "so cute, yes mama". Oh. my. We have fun over here, people.

I think of what she has been through at her young age. She was taken from her home
and put on a plane never to return to anything familiar. She felt the burden of taking
care of her younger sister and also protecting her from what might happen. She felt both
grief and loss which caused her to develop the skills of survival.

And yet, this beautiful little girl is a picture of hope. She is joyful. She is truly joyful.
As with many who have stories like hers, she has days of grief. I hold her and we talk
if needed. We pray together and we spend lots of time playing together.
Most of all,she never gives up.
Ever.

I posted a little while back about giving her things to do that were similar to things
she expressed a desire to do at home. As I was putting the laundry in the washer the
other day, she came up to me. We talked about her baby alive (who is always needing a
diaper change) and the purse she thought she might bring to the grocery store. She
stopped and watched me. I will never forget what she said next-
"Mama, you do laundry and I be kid?"

Oh yes, sweet girl. Please "be kid". Please enjoy your childhood.
It is wonderful to see the fruit of our work together as she relaxes playing dominoes, barbies, dolls and (new favorite) playing teacher with the chalkboard.

miss M started preschool this semester. Her tutor was pleased to report that she had made
great strides first semester. The excitement on day one was unreal. She chose her own
outfit and we put beads in her hair to match her dress choice.
I am proud to report that a few weeks
into school she is doing really well.
She is happy to be in school and is making new friends.

Thanks for letting me be "that mom" today.
I am so proud of her.