Love and Logic

I just read a book about parenting styles, Helicopters, Drill Sergeants and Consultants. I have identified myself as more of a drill sergeant and less of a consultant than I'd like. There is not a shred of helicopter here! Anyway, I also got a copy of Love and Logic Magic for Early Childhood which I am thoroughly enjoying. Love and Logic is the kind of parenting to which I aspire. And I have a perfect guinea pig - an almost two year old. :) I'm about half way through the book and will begin applying the things I learn today. Stay tuned and I'll let you know how it goes. I have high hopes!

Approved!

We got our FedEx today with our certificate of Adoption Approval from Gladney! So exciting to be one step closer. As before it all seems a little unreal. I think this time will be like last where the wait, looking back, just seems like a blur with a sudden stop at the end when a small child is placed in your arms. The responsibility of parenthood settles about your shoulders and it is then that all the reading and learning and thinking and dreaming coalesces into a quiet confidence. This is where I should be at this moment and this is the child I was intended to raise with all love that I have to give. When I look at my son and think about how we came to share a family, I find it impossible not to think about the ancient Chinese belief that says, "An invisible red thread connects us to those we are destined to meet, regardless of time, place or circumstance. The thread may stretch or tangle, but it will never break." It is truly amazing that we have been so gifted. I am grateful for all that I have and for all that is still to come.

A Weekend of Parties....

This past weekend we celebrated Tolido's first Halloween! We dressed him up in a pumpkin costume - the cutest pumpkin I've ever seen - and trotted him off to a neighborhood hayride. He and Daddy got off at every stop and gathered more loot and he never stopped. He absolutely LOVED running around with the big kids. Next morning we were off to see a horse show for Mommy's birthday. Tolido could get right up next to the chain link fence of the arena. There were two jumps close to the fence and each time a giant horse would land off the jump just feet from him his eyes would light up and he'd giggle. He seemed to love the sound of a horse neighing and would try to mimic each time he heard it. He didn't seem to understand that a horse could run him over as he chafed at having his hand held... Then it was off to Wurstfest that night for some sausage eating and polka dancing. Uncharacteristically, he wasn't having much luck with the little ladies but he never stopped trying! He settled for dancing with Mommy and Daddy. He loves music but he really loves LIVE music... thus, he was in his element. Early the next morning it was time to get suited up in his tuxedo for a wedding. He was a quiet little angel during the ceremony and found a jukebox at the reception. ...but he wouldn't kiss the bride and wasn't too interested in a hug either. Guess he was fed up with girls! :)