A year

Dear Oma,
We've prayed 365 bedtime prayers telling you that we love and miss you.
It's been a big year.  You have a namesake in Maxine Archer Leigh.  She's a spunky little lady!  Derek (and I) wish so badly that you could have met her. She adores Phoebe - Derek says this is the Oma in her. 
Cole has grown so much.  We talk to him a lot about you.  I tell him stories about you and remember for him the moments that you two shared.  He has questions that we try to answer in a way that he can understand. 
Derek misses you so badly.  You would be so proud of him.  He is such an amazing Daddy.  He is protective and caring.  And, he steps in more than I ever expected.  He is doing so well in taking care of Opa, just like you asked him.  I can't say enough how much me misses and loves you.
I silently talk to you a lot.  I don't know that you hear me but I believe that you do.  You are still a part of our days - every day.  I regret not valuing our relationship more in the time we had together.  I hope you protect your grandkids in whatever way you can.  I hope that you always fill them with love and peace.  I will do what I can too.  I hope you are watching and pleased. 
Lots of love from us all,
your Kids.

Check.

I should have made my goal for the remainder of summer:

Survive.

With my return to work came an initial feeling of euphoria. All was well with the world.  I quickly realized though, that I didn't really feel like myself.  I've been so "out of it" that I have explained it as feeling drunk.  All. The. Time.  It only took me a week to realize that I was not doing so hot.  I went to my doctor and got what he offered.  I am not sure that it's the solution but it is something.  I guess it is just overwhelming: house, kids, family, clients, paperwork, lack of sleep, and on and on.

The good side of all of this is that I am too "out of it" to be too bummed about leaving the kids.  I miss them but I have to work at it just to make it through the day without feeling completely overwhelmed and confused.

Maxine and Cole enjoyed a WONDERFUL six weeks with their Na.  Derek and I were so spoiled with having her come take over in the morning.  The kids were so spoiled by her attentive, loving care.  Maxine now goes to a new sitter, who we are adjusting to.  And Cole is back at school.  He is thriving there. He benefits so much from the structure, learning, and physical activity that his school offers. 

Regarding my goals...I haven't crossed much off.  at.  all.  However, I am very proud of the few that I have!  I've lost 10% and more on weight watchers.  I want to keep it up until I reach goal weight....and plan to do that by Maxine's first birthday.  And work!  I am back in the groove - making bonus and all.  AND - I ventured out and started a business, Jennifer Albracht Photography!

So, lots is happening. Leaving little time for blogging.  I will find my groove soon though.  Here's to survival!

A Practice Sesh

I love my camera and have obsessed over photos since I got it.  

(just ask my family)

Derek got me photo editing software as a gift.

(and I have had fun learning)

I've decided to take my obsession to the next level and use it to help my family.

(let me know what you think)

This business needs a name.

(I am open to any suggestions)

 

Extra special thanks to Laura, Stella, & Maria for being my lovely subjects!

They make taking pretty pictures incredibly easy!

a day in the park

before I went back to work and before it got too-hot-to-breathe we spent a day in the park.

 it was a perfect day for soaking up the sun, fun, and puddles at the bottom of the slide.

Cheeks

It just so happens that these cheeks, all four of them, are perfect places to smoosh my nose into.