"I SOOO happy"

Aliya's hair was done with a gentle relaxer and then flat ironed straight. Our stylist said if I brought her most other places, they would do a super relaxer on her hair and it would be so strong and would dry out her hair. She did use 2 tubs of the relaxer because Aliya's hair was totally natural. I am told when she washes it, it will be curly like a loose perm but she will be able to comb through it. I also use a product that is an oil that protects her hair from the heat of a flat iron. I use it every day, maybe twice to get her hair into a good condition. It will take time since it's never been taken care of (for obvious reasons). We found a woman who also has the same hair type as Aliya. This is important, I think because you need someone who really GETS it to do it. Aliya is really happy with how it turned out. I'll tell her you all like it, too!

Remember some months back, I told you that I was asked to speak at our church's women's retreat? Well, it is this Saturday! I know I'm letting you know sort of late, as is my style;) but I did want to put it out there just in case some of you would be able to make it.

It begins at 8:30 and goes until 2:00. I'm sorry I don't know much about how things work, since it's my first time attending a women's retreat. But I know there is food, a brunch I guess. The cost is $15. If you are interested in coming, please call 952-432-7168. The church is located in Burnsville. I speak during 2 sessions: 11:15 (this one is full) and 12:45. They are 40 minutes long. I'm trying to get it all figured out what I'm going to say exactly. Blaine is getting my power point (just pictures...worth a thousand words, you know!) done tonight so I can practice and get it all together.

I was wisely reminded that God used Moses, even though he wasn't an eloquent speaker. I also, am NOT an eloquent speaker but I do trust that God will use our story to bless and encourage others. Pray for me!!!!! And yes, I'm still going in jeans! I'm there to be real (which I personally think is lacking in the church at large). It seems to me that there is so much 'trying to impress' and so much 'trying to look like we are perfect Christians' that it scares some people away. Well, let me be the first to say, "I am NOT perfect" and I will not be trying to be someone I am not. Hence, the jeans. It's what I wear. It's who I am. And I'm going to be real and transparent so there you go! Deal with 'dat!

Ok, all that out of the way. I wanted to share what Aliya said to me last night. We were getting her hair ready for bed (it gets wrapped) and I said to her, "I want you to know that if you ever are not happy..."

She cut me off, "I happy!" (enthusiastically)

I said, "I know, but we want you to know that if there is anything you don't like, like maybe you don't like something I make for dinner..."

Cut off again, "I LIKE!"

Me, laughing now, "I know, but there WILL come a day where you get mad at Dad or me or Katie or Blake or the boys or you think something is not fair. I want you to know that you can tell us...we want to know these things."

I told her, "Dad and I are amazed at you and how well you are fitting into the family. You are such an amazing and great girl."

Alliya, "Mom, I SOOOOO happy. I just SOOOOOO happy."

Me, "Me, too honey."

Ahhhhh, sweet music to my ears. My daughter is soooooo happy.

Praise the Lord,
Laura