November 22nd, 2013. What was I doing this time last year? I was defrosting my turkey in the sink; it was Thanksgiving no less! Next thing you know, I’m at the hospital awaiting the birth of Tatum. That Thanksgiving had far more meaning than former years. Tatum would symbolize true gratitude and over-abundant blessings to me and my family and I would never let a day go by that she would not know how loved she is.
Fast forward ONE YEAR TODAY! The gratitude I feel has only grown. With Tatum has come friendships, challenges to grow character, family closeness, and so many lessons which I need to learn to be the best mommy ever.
Today, was a Friday, so that meant at Temple Chai, there would be Shabbat services. I had two wonderful colleagues cover my English classes since I was only giving a Grammar test (:)) and head over to the services to surprise her. We headed over in the cart with Will, Eli and Malea, along with Fran and Marla. 
They sang songs and then we headed forward to say prayers, break Challah bread and sing happy birthday!
Then Logan hooked her back in and I headed back to school until I would pick her up for her surprise evening.
She stared at her cupcake in wonderment. Oddly, she just wanted to play with it. Of ALL things she puts in her mouth, this was NOT one of them! I kept saying, “Try it Tatum!” Nope. She just threw it on the floor and Coti cleaned it all up for me…very convenient these dogs. 
Then Grandma gave her a teaching clock and she lit up like the candle. This topped all of her day.
Thank you Grandma for my gifts!
What a fabulous day of ONE! Such a fabulous number. 