Passin Time in Fiji

Zo ë !   You are 8 years old!   8!   I cannot believe it.    To me, you are still my little baby and probably always be, even when you are grown and maybe have your own children one day- you’ll still be my sweet baby girl.    This birthday has been special because we know it’s your last one in Fiji.   We’ve had all of your favorite friends (and you have many) over for a party and sleepover, we had our Fiji family/friends over for a celebratory gathering and just the four of us went out to Daikoku and Snowy House for dinner too.    It’s easy to celebrate your life because we all love you so much! You are well liked among your peers.    Last year at the end of year 1 when all of the students got to write down three friends they wanted to be in year 2 with, you were selected by so many!    I was privy to the information as I helped form the future classes as the school counselor and I couldn’t stop smiling when I saw how many little girls put you on their list.    People are drawn to

I somehow got invited to the Fiji Fashion Week VIP Launch this Monday at the French Ambassador's home (Thanks for the invite Mario).  It was a good time!  Fun, fashion, friends....    Fiji is in it's 11th year of Fashion Week and I'm always impressed by the designs.  I've loved being a part of it every year (well, not being a part but going to the shows).   The designers are so creative.  The ambassador's home was so beautiful and the art inside was even better.   Such a different thing to do on a Monday night!

I have no pictures, but my kids both made me smile in pride yesterday.   Zoё has accomplished a front hand spring.  She's worked very hard on it and has finally achieved it!  So proud of her!   As she was telling me about it we were in a mad rush amidst a massive thunderstorm to get to swimming to pick up Andie.  I was worried about Andie being at the pool by herself in a loud storm so I was trying to get there quickly.   I imagined Andie being scared and hiding away somewhere.   I should have known better.  When I pulled up in the near dark,  I spotted Andie's silhouette dancing in the rain and splashing in the puddles.   She was soaking wet and extremely happy.  Everyone else was taking cover, but sweet Andie was just splashing around.  Once she got in the car soaking wet I mentioned that it looked like she was having fun and she replied, "Ya, I figured I'd just make the best of the situation."    Proud of them for such different reasons - hard work and determ

Today in Fiji Zoё turns 8.  I can't believe I have an 8 and 9 year old!  (I always like these two months when people ask how old my kids are because I can make it seem like they are only a year apart and it makes me feel like a bad ass mama).   Anyway, time has flown.   Tonight we will celebrate with our family by going out to her favorite place for dinner and dessert.  This morning she got to open her presents from family.     Last weekend we celebrated with her friends.  On Saturday she had a small birthday party with close friends.   They had a blast!  They swam in the pool, decorated cupcakes, and did a long scavenger hunt.   Smiles all around.  Then two friends slept over.   On Sunday we went to the movies and then our Fiji family (friends) came over to celebrate as well.   Overall it was SO special.    Next up, her birthday letter.  I caught these two hugging like this on the porch. so much fun!  Each kid is from a differe