My day was SO busy. My only guaranteed free daylight minutes were about 40 minutes from the time I dropped R&L off at school until we went back to school for an assembly. So, Gus and I drove out in to the country and I took a few quick photos while he yelled “I’m cold!” from the van.

Frost and fog all around. Beautiful, but definitely things I DON’T love about fall.

After we were done, we quickly headed back to the school for an assembly. Lena was getting a success award! Each teacher at the school picks one kid a month to be honored for their success in the classroom.

This was totally a sappy, proud mom moment for me. Yes, 8 of other kids in her class will also receive this award this year, but for Lena, it’s truly spectacular. Life hasn’t exactly been easy to her. We’ve always recognized that she is special, but in a class of 15 kids, SHE is exceptional.

We met her 3 years ago in November. At almost 3 years old, she was still a baby. Tiny in stature. She could only speak the few words we taught her– “Mama”, “Papa”, “Cracker”. Her gait was stiff and awkward and her run was a slow shuffle. After her third birthday, when we introduced her to our extended family, they said “are you sure she didn’t just turn 2, not 3?!” Yes, we’re sure.

Here’s what her teacher wrote about her for today’s award: “I would like to nominate Lena for this month’s success award. Lena has shown amazing academic growth so far this year. She has also begun to participate more in class by raising her hand and offering answers. Lena always does the right thing and makes good decisions even if those around her are not. Lena is a smart, wonderful little girl who is a joy to have in class.”

Congrats, my sweet Lena. You are exceptional!

“Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.” Isaiah 43:19