Where does the time go? I've been so busy and so tired (remember, Petunia doesn't sleep) that I've been feeling like a zombie most days. I'm so behind on posting, reading other blogs, and responding to emails. Sorry, my friends, but I'll get to them all -- promise! We did have a full night's sleep Thursday night, and as glorious as that was, it still wasn't nearly enough. Anyway, I've got lots of catching-up to do, so I'm going to jump right in.
Actually, no. I'm first going to wish all the dads out there, especially my dad, a Happy Father's Day! I'm blessed beyond measure when it comes to my dad, and I'm forever thankful to have him. Petunia and I wish we could have been with you today, Dad/Papa, but we were there in spirit. We love you!
Now I'll jump right in...
We really enjoyed having my parents and Hannah here for a week. Not only was Petunia spoiled while they were here, but I was, too. I had help with some of the housework and cooking, and they really helped me get some yard work done. They got things down from the attic for me, and put other things up. (That's a really difficult thing to do by yourself.) I certainly didn't expect you to spend your time here working, but I hope you all know how appreciative I am for all your help. We love you and miss you tons! (Not a day has gone by without Petunia telling me she wants to go to your house. The phone conversations just aren't enough for her anymore. So pitiful!)
Last weekend we had the opportunity to visit with some friends,
Chandra, Cliff, and Boo,
Daphne and Ben, and
Kelli and Aiden. They all came to Nashville for a little blogger friend get-together, and we had the best time! We had met everyone in real life except Kelli and Aiden, so I was super excited for the chance to meet them. (It's easy to wonder if you'll like your blogger friends before you meet them in person, because all you know of them is what they write. No worries, though. Kelli is wonderful, I liked her immediately, and I'm sure we'll be friends always, which is how I feel about the others.) Chandra, Cliff, and Boo came Saturday morning and hung out with us since it was too early to check into their hotel. We loved spending that time with them.
I wanted to fix dinner for my out-of-town friends Saturday night, and they were gracious enough to come to our house. Everyone was just so easy to get along with, and the kids are too adorable for words. On top of it all, the kids played so well together. They all have such different personalities, but it was fantastic to watch them play. Boo is a little charmer, a little reserved at first, quite the dancer, and full of smiles. Ben is high-energy, all boy, has a grin to die for, and is a total babe magnet. Aiden is the youngest of the group, but he hung right in there with the older kids. He looks cute in pictures, but they do not do him justice! He's such a handsome little man who likes to explore and stay busy. He has a smile for everyone, but he likes to be sure his mom is nearby. I did not do a good job when it came to taking pictures, but my friends have some great pictures on their blogs, so hop on over and check them out if you haven't done so already.
I've said it before, but I have met some fabulous friends online because of the adoption connection. I often feel like the most fortunate girl in the world. The friendships, for example, with Chandra, Cliff, Daphne, and Kelli, are real ones, and I'd hang out with them anytime. And I love, love, love their children! Petunia has been around Daphne several times, so she'll usually go to her within a couple of minutes. I know she remembered Cliff and Chandra, but it still took her a little time before she allowed them to chat with her. Kelli, on the other hand, was not someone she'd met before, so she didn't give her much attention Saturday. It was so funny because Petunia kept asking me, "Who is 'that mama'?" Sunday was better though, and she warmed up a little more. I guess it also helped because Kelli and Aiden were the only ones who were able to come back to our house on Sunday. Kelli and I really got to talk, and the kids were so good that day. I had a great time on Saturday because it was so busy and fun, and I had an equally great time on Sunday because it was laid-back and relaxing. Thanks everyone for being willing to come into town for the weekend. I'm sorry Petunia and I didn't make it to the park to meet the other families... next time though. I'm already looking forward to doing this again! Hopefully some of our other friends will be able to join us next time.
Our next guests will be arriving on July 1st. Nanny, Ebeth, and Emmy are coming for a whole week! Ebeth is so sweet. Her birthday is July 2nd, and she asked her mom for a trip to Nashville instead of a birthday party. This is actually the second time she's passed up a party to come up here. I love my best friend and her sweet daughters! As much as Hubby and Skippy the dog will miss "their girls", I'm sure they'll enjoy an estrogen-less week at home, while getting in some quality nap time. We can't wait to see our friends!
I have several Petunia stories to document, so I'll make an effort to do those this week. My girl is funny!
Petunia spent some time with Jen-Jen and Evan yesterday, and Jen was able to get a few cute pics while Petunia played. Thanks, Jen, for sending me the photos!
The self-appointed brother/sister duo.
In the words of Inspector Clouseau, "What's that you said?"
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Her shiny, black hair. Her gorgeous complexion. Her amazing eyes and crazy long eyelashes. Her perfect nose. Her sweet, tiny mouth. I know I'm biased, but I think she's just beautiful!
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And there's always a silly face to be made!
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I love her profile, too. Oh, my sweet and spicy girl!
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I wasn't ready to see her looking so grown-up.
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They're either praying or letting Jen know '
enough already!' with the photography.