As I watched this slideshow I was just overcome with the amazing feeling that you gave Kalkidan a FAMILY. The photos of the holidays especially moved me. As Christians we are called to care for the orphans, and Kalkidan's life is an amazing testament to the ways in which your family did just that, and it is an inspiration to me. I know you miss her, but I am thankful you have such precious memories to cherish.
My heart is absolutely aching for your family. I have been following your blog and Dimples' journey for years. My prayers are with you all during this unimaginable time of loss.
I needed this post today! We are nearly a week behind on our Jesse Tree and have yet to be able to have the family service lighting the advent candle each Sunday night as I had envisioned it because my three year-old is always upset about something and unable to keep still. Keeping expectations low sounds like a good plan :)
Ryan is so excited to learn that he can get a cup of cream at Starbucks, so thanks for the tip.
When he started this diet he announced that he was going to start drinking cream as a meal and I was skeptical, to say the least.
Now, 40+ pounds down and counting, I guess I can eat my words. Cream through a straw is the nectar of the skinny gods I suppose.
This is the weirdest thing ever. I've noticed it so much lately with Ryan low-carbing it. People are really quick to criticize or say negative things rather than saying, "Wow you look great," or "Way to go! I'm proud of you." The other day a friend of our said, "...Yeah but didn't Atkins die of a heart attack?" Translation: you are going to die of a heart attack. I think it's just plain rude. How about supporting someone rather than bringing them down for actually doing something good for themselves, their health, and their body.
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Noel Cordle 
Production