It's Been Awhile...

Hey there little Sammy,

It's been awhile since I've posted on your blog.  This is why...

We've been working like crazy lately.  We recently decided that for sure we were taking you to Now I Can.  Once the word got out, we got fundraisers like crazy going on.  We did a restaurant fundraiser at Chevy's.  It was a hit.  Diane Black started researching, and then creating, a 5K for you scheduled for May 21 (the day after my birthday).  I can't think of anything I'd rather do to celebrate my birthday than run for you.  Sweatin' for Sammy.  I like the ring of it.  I came up with it after Daddy said he wanted something fun and with alliteration.  That was the first thing that came to my mind -- after Sauntering for Sammy, but I wasn't really serious about that one.  Don't worry.

Scott Emert -- you don't know him but Uncle Ted played soccer with him for years and so, I know him too, is putting a fundraiser together for you while we're in Michigan this June.  He, Jason Emerine, Scott Wickham (who I had a crush on back in the day -- and now he's doing this for me...strange really) and some other guys are putting a silent auction together.  It's pretty incredible.  Their new goal is to earn enough money to get you to Now I Can TWO times. 

I've been overwhelmed with the ourpouring of love. 

On Thursday, when I dropped you off at Scribbles and Giggles, Ann (manager) said, "She must bring you all so much joy.  Look at her."  And you know what?  You do.  You bring us so much joy.  And what I have discovered is that what I thought I knew -- that you bring joy to others around you -- is actually true.  People want to do so much for you because you do so much for them, in your little way.  You are great, Samantha.  And sometimes I stand in awe that you are mine.

I love you.
Mommy

Redemption

Well Samantha,

You have redeemed yourself. After a fabulous night's sleep (I'm talking 7:30-6am), you were a delight in school today. You know how I know this? Because your teacher sent home a little note that said, "Samantha had a wonderful day today!"

So, there you go. You're redeemed.

Love you,
Mommy

Shape Up

Samantha,

We're going to have a serious one-way discussion here, ok? I talk. You listen. I'm your mother -- you remember that. Now...today you received your first "bad" letter home. That's right. I was surprised and a little disappointed. It stated that you were "unbelievably fussy and crying" today. Now now. Is that a way to treat your teacher and aids? Last night I cut your hair. Are you upset with how that turned out? Or perhaps it was because you woke up at 4am. Could we work on that? Do you think if you slept longer you could be happier during the day? Let's put a good honest effort into getting good sleep. Ok? In the meantime, I don't want any more notes from your teacher. You're a sweet girl, and that's how they know you. So shape up missy pants. We all love you and are behind you 100%, but you got to give us a smile from time to time.

Love you unbelievably.
Mommy

Good Job

Li'l Sammer,

Despite the fact that yesterday was a rough day of travel, and we had a 3 hour time change...you had a perfectly wonderful day, starting off with hard work in PT and a happy day at school with your friends. You even took a nap on the bus -- probably to catch up on your missed zzzz's with the time change.

I love you to pieces. You're simply the cutest.
Love,
Mommy