So, without meaning to, I let too much time slip by between my last post and now. So much has happened, and I haven't really had time to sit down and reflect on it all. Something that I don't think I've mentioned is that my mother in law was diagnosed with cancer in November and had surgery in February. Surgery went well, but she has had other complications, which is dragging out her post-operative treatment. Luckily her prognosis is good, and it is only a matter of time before she is through this ordeal. We are trying to strike the appropriate level of disclosure with the kids, letting them know that something is going on, without too many of the scary details. Because Nanny is still recovering, Tim and I have divided up our time with the kids, forming an ad hoc childcare/work schedule. The wonderful piece that has been added to our puzzle is my Aunt Patti and grandma, who come down every Wednesday to watch the kids. It has been great getting to see them every week, and watching the kids' relationship with them grow. When I was little, my grandma used to take care of me and Beth every Wednesday. It is beyond special to me that she is now getting to do the same with my own kids.
Because of everything that was happening, we delayed Mac's birthday parties until the end of March. For the first time ever, she had a kids party and a family party. The kid party was (where else) at the karate school. I was afraid that it wouldn't be fun, because only 6 kids could come. But once her first guest arrived, I realized that Mac was so excited that she would have fun with just one kid. Luckily, more showed up and it was a great time. Tim did a wonderful job keeping the kids busy, and we had an awesome princess cake and cupcakes.
Mac also made her Easter Play debut at church. Following her triumphant performance in the Christmas play (which really just hinged on her not throwing anything at the Baby Jesus this year) we decided to let her be in the Easter show. It was an exciting showing, and watching her become friends with the other kids in the program has been a real blessing. I am so happy that we have a good church where she can learn and grow.
We are gearing up for a busy few weeks. Not only is it the end of the semester, but the karate school is also hosting the regional tournament for April. Tim has lined up a lot of special guests, and extended the event into a nighttime tricking gathering and a tricking seminar the next day. It will be a busy, but hopefully lucrative and educational, weekend.
Meanwhile, while Tim is hosting the seminar, the kids and I will be heading to Sesame Place. Each year, the Variety Children's Network rents the park and opens it free for kids with disabilities and their families. We went last year and had a great time. I can't wait to go again.
