I know some people don't like the use of Gotcha Day, but in this case and so many others I've considered over the past 12 months...we've chosen to use it and for us it is the right decision. That being said, we had an amazing celebration with more than 70 people in attendance for the American themed day. Everyone from aunts and uncles to piano teachers and the mayor of our town were in attendance. Jacinda's teaching team and many close friends from our first year were there to share in our joy. We made the decision in lieu of gifts to ask people to honor our one year as a family with a donation to Miskaye Children's Home in Addis. This is an endeavor of my BFF Aimee and one of the causes I hold near and dear to my heart. Jacinda decorated some collection bins and placed them out at the party. Through the generosity of our friends and family, we are going to be donating just over $500 to Miskaye. Thank you so much to all of you who helped make a difference. I was moved to tears and can't express how much it means to have such generous people sharing in our passion!
Aside from the donations, we spent the day viewing Jacinda's video and fellowshipping. We had a candle lighting ceremony where Jacinda lit a candle for her Ethiopian mommy and one for her Ethiopian daddy and then I took those candles and lit one in the center for her. I presented her with the four dolls I bought for her in Addis last year and then we finished the day with a huge candy toss for the kids.
It was a wonderful, wonderful way to commemorate 365 days of breathtaking memories! I am such a blessed woman!
1 comment:
Diann, you are such a creative and thoughtful and fun (I could go on and on) mommy! What a wonderful celebration! I sure wish we lived closer....happy Gotcha Day! -Tia
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