Callie-Gal

On Saturday, Oct. 7th, we celebrated a very special day: Callie's birthday! This was a bittersweet day for Callie, although the Lord truly blessed the day and the party. It was a little sad though because Callie was missing her best friend, Aly. On Friday night, Callie and I were talking about how special of a friend Aly is and that this would be only the 3rd birthday she has missed! Aly has been there ever since Callie could remember: from birthday number 3 until number 8. What a sweet surprise it was when Aly called as we were all having a birthday breakfast!

As for the party, people in Hawaii really know how to celebrate birthdays! We were concerned that not many girls would come because Callie really hasn't had an opportunity to make friends here yet. She handed out invitations to all the girls she saw at church and at homeschooling events for the last two weeks who were between the ages of 5 and 12! Suprisingly almost all of them came to the party. And those that couldn't come made it a point to bring a gift by the house.

The party was such a success. All the children seemed to have a good time. Having a pool is a tremendous plus for a party; I highly recommend it! Having a 17 year old sister who is willing to put up the decorations and run the games is a huge asset as well.

As for us, we are truly blessed to have such a sweet and caring daughter. It is because of Callie's passion for her family and friends that this was such a difficult birthday for her. And it is that same passion in Callie that encourages us all to love and care for each other more each day, just as Christ did for us!