What 3 1/2 is looking like

Isn't she beautiful? Both LT and Grandma!!!

Hometown Connection

Cousin Love

Easter

This Easter was so special because we were with tons of people we love and LT fully enjoyed all the Easter bunny excitement. I will always remember this Easter (when she is 3) because she told me my first knock knock joke and also how I "frustrated her". So much to look forward to... ;) I also spent this Easter living in all our blessings and love. Life moves by fast and is often times very hard but there is so so much to be thankful for and this spring time celebration reminds me of how we all need one another and love.

this little light of mine

So a bit blown away today as I was walking in to school today one of LT's classmates had drawn a ladybug. I smiled and told the teacher (best teacher in the world) ladybugs are very important to us. She said, "oh me too, I have one tattoo on my back, it made me feel better during my cancer treatment." What's interesting, is that's when they starting appearing in major ways in my life - when my father was going through cancer treatment. I would have never guessed she would have one but if was soooo good to hear and once again "ladybugs appear" in significant ways.

Family - 2 Year Anniversary

This week marks 2 years since the Ethiopian courts made us each others. When I think about all the factors that go into our union, I shed a tear because I realize that none of it was chance and all of it is a beautiful orchestration of a divine power. She is extraordinary & every ounce of me feels humbled by the grandness in the universe's scheme. This week, I honor the whispers in my soul that told me this was meant for me when it seemed strange to most. I honor our Ethiopian family. I celebrate family this week, in every fashion, construct & appearance. LT is my heart and I'm happy to navigate life with the motherly feelings that inform my priorities. Happy Family Anniversary to us and to the best birthday present ever - my girl.

Jotrailer Clothes & Let's Build a School!

So my friend Jodi and I were having lunch talking about the cute Africa inspired clothes we could make and low and behold, Jodi actually made them. See post and please let us know what you think!

Clothing line: Jotrailer

Also if you don't know yet about "A Book in Their Hands" Fundraising Effort.

Please visit Ethiopia Reads

you can purchase tickets or please consider a donation if you can't make the event.

We have collected around 50 original pieces of artwork from noteable African artists:

Renowned African Artists Featured in Venice Art Show Benefiting Ethiopian Reads & The Tesfa Foundation

Venice, CA – Local family spear heads fundraising effort - A Book in Their Hands - to build a library and school in their their children's birth place in Ethiopia and has brought together an amazing evening of art, live performances, silent auction,food & drink on Sunday, April 17 at the Electric Lodge in Venice, CA. The benefit will feature over 40 pieces of original art work and photography with pieces from renown African artists Yadesa Bojia, Fortune Sitole, Paul Nzalamba. Event will also include a performance from, Ana Egge and Aldous Collins. Additionally, award-winning writer Jane Kurtz will be speaking and signing books. Tickets are limited and $50/person and are available online at www.ethiopiareads.org

Join us on April 17th for a powerful evening of global giving as we come together to make sure books and education are a reality for one community in the Kambata Tembaro region of Ethiopia.

WHEN: April 17^th, 2011, 6:30 pm

WHERE: The Electric Lodge

1416 Electric Ave, Venice, Ca. 90291

PH: 310-306-1854

Tickets: $50 (adults only) via www.ethiopiareads.org

More Info: Contact Julie at eyesofmyeyes@yahoo.com

Event Updates: Facebook Page - “A Book in Their Hands”

Girl Time

WHO WANTS TO PAINT?





WE DO?

The Holiday Season

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

Growing Family

My brother & beautiful Seble had and new baby girl, Emma Rebaka We got the pleasure of spending time with them and loving every minute of our new growing family!

Halloween 2010

In all her glory

PHOTO CREDIT: The Best

Full of Possibility

I want to spotlight two posts that are a must read and deserve much attention.

1. Adopted is not an adjective

2. Infant Adoption & Loss

Both of these posts speak to an issue that is close to my heart - respecting all that your child is and all they can become by embracing and not labeling or defining them in a way that limits the totality of their potential. Their experiences are a respectful part of them but are not them.

Joy, wonder, independence is what she is right now. LT's two & a half and 2 months into school and my girl is thriving. Kind, Funny, Sweet, Smart, Confidant & Determined. Preschool has really opened up her world and the developmental progress in 2 months has been awesome. Keeping one step ahead or rather just up with her is the goal. super lucky me.

I love my Hair

Thanks Suzanne for finding this! ;)

bigger