Our Powder Puff-Grandpa Ed would be proud

So, we have spent alot of time skiing this year and our little Glacier loves it. This picture was taken by a friend who was up there with her family. She is standing just like her daddy does when he is waiting for us at the bottom of the hill. She so looks up to him as a skier and watches every turn he makes. She is now trying to do the "hockey stop" so she can spray us at the end of her stops. What can we say...we are both very proud parents and since we named her Glacier we are proud she stands up to her pretty name.

Oh and buddy (Canyon)...he is mastering the art of keeping Oma busy. He loves to hang out with her and Sophia. I think Oma has had her fair share of kid shows, but I know she enjoys her special time with him.

It has been a good winter for The Raymond family after such a hard summer. We still miss our Esther and think of her each day, but we know that someday she will be on the slopes with us, or if she is like her little brother hanging out with Oma.

Happy Birthday Oma!

Well, yesterday was mom's birthday. She is still as beautiful as the day I met her 35 years ago. She has such a wonderful spirit and like you all we love her so much. I feel lucky eveyday that she is in my life and must honestly say I miss her on those days I do not see or talk to her and look forward to seeing her each day.

Last year was a trying year for her and I as we embarked on the adoption as a team and have fought tooth and nail to get Esther here with us. She has been a rock to me during those times I felt God was deserting me and my family and has been there to cry with me when all was going so sour. She is truly what has kept me going through this all and I love her for it. Her realtionship with my children amazes me everytime she is around them. She teaches them to be such good people and shows them how far a little kindness will go. They love her as much as me and I admire that relationship. I would not want it any other way. She is also been such a wonderful influence on Esther. Those two have a bond that will never go away. She loves her so much and has taken care of her from afar. She writes her letters weekly and reminds me to stay strong for her. She is always making sure Esther is present in our lives and make sure everyone treats her like our family.

I guess I just love her so much and could go on and on. For those of you reading this I am sure we feel the same way about my beautiful mother. She inspires us to be better people and to remember to love those around us. She is truly a remarkable woman! I hope to grow up to be even half the lady she is.