My inspiration

Okay -- seriously you are ALL my inspiration. I cannot tell you how great it is to be able to "check up" on my favorite ETH families and see pictures of the kids (that means all the kids, ETH or otherwise.) I think blogging and emailing should be mandatory for all adoptive parents because we learn so much from one another. I am jealous of those of you who already have kiddos at home, and of those moms that stay at home (which my husband has already said no to. It really sucks when you make more money than your husband!) I learn from each and every one of you every day.

However, my sister Amanda is my all-time parenting inspiration. I know, I should say my mom, but since I was a kid, it's hard for me to truly understand her as a parent. But as an adult, observing my sister raise her amazing almost 4 year old & almost 2 year old girls, I can truly appreciate everything she goes through to make it sanely through a day. She made the brave choice to stay at home when her company wouldn't let her go to part time after Emma was born. Her fantastic hubby works extra shifts to make up the difference. They struggle, sure, but they make it work. Family comes first, and their girls know how much they are loved every single day. I am in constant awe of my sis, and hope & pray I can be 1/2 the mother she is. Now, like most moms, she doesn't think she's anything special...but I know otherwise. I may be a little bit biased, but I swear my neices are the most amazing kids on the planet. (there is a reason to hope we get a little guy, then my neices can be the most amazing girls on the planet, and I won't feel guilty!)

Here is a pic of my sis at my wedding. She was 6 mos preg with Olivia, and Emma was my flower girl. Love you Manda!!