Shell's Diaries

I just thought I'd repost this in honor of the passing of McKenna, and Valentine's Day.   (Originally written February 2011) VALENTINE'S DAY - A Bitter/Sweet Occasion For the longest time, I've wanted to write down my thoughts about this special holiday and why I love it so much, and at other times, why I dread it. For the past 13 years, when this day rolls around, I feel both emotions at the same time, but at the end of the day, knowing that this day brought much sorrow to my heart, it also warms my heart because of what I have waiting for me, someday. I like to think of McKenna being held by Jesus, shortly before she was born, October 21, 1997. And I like to think of him saying to her, "You have a hard road ahead, although it will be short, but I know you can do it, and I know your parents will love you all the more for it. I'll be waiting for you when you return." It wasn't but a few seconds after McKenna was born, in

I LOVE YOU I'm learning to love Valentine's Day more as each year passes.  I've never really disliked it, but it wasn't among my top 3 favorite holidays either.  But as my children continue to grow despite my pleas for them to stop, Valentine's Day is turning into a fun holiday for me to express, in a fun, sweet tasting way, my love for them.   Last year I blogged about Valentine's Day being a bitter/sweet holiday for me, because it was at this time in which my first baby girl passed away.  But as the years have rolled on, I've gained a better appreciation for this be"love"d occasion.  I happened upon a fun way to show my children my love for them this coming Valentine's Day, and I CANNOT wait to do it.  I'm feeling so giddy about it as I type. Maybe I'll end up being the one who's more excited about it than they. But you know what? That's okay!!  Maybe that's the whole purpose.  The more we, as parents are excited to