My American Girl

Cari, without a doubt is my "American Girl". She has had an intense fascination for about a year with the books and dreaming of maybe one day getting a new American Girl doll of her own. She was very blessed with the gift of an American Girl doll from a previous church member. This member's daughter had Samantha when she was a young girl. They graciously passed Samantha to Cari. I have had a lot of fun watching Cari play and care for this doll. She often talks of Samantha needing a friend. And in the last six months has expressed that she would really love to get a new American Girl doll, that is...so Samantha has a friend!

Since moving, Cari has not met any little girls her age. We have managed to meet lots of little boys, but unfortunately no little girls. I decided to try to change that. I started an American Girl book club for our homeschool group. Hoping to attract girls in the same age range and same interests as Cari, I took the leap. Well, it has been a success! I am very thankful other moms have been willing to take time for this event. We have had so much fun having some much needed girl time. Cari is developing friendships, that she so badly wanted. I am one happy mama!

At our last meeting we had a tea party. The girls had just

read the Felicity series, which takes place in the colonial

era, where afternoon tea is part of daily routines. Their

giggling was a joy ringing in the mothers' ears. What fun!

One evening, I was talking to my dad telling of Cari's latest happening with her book club and her love of history. The American Girl books have evoked a curiosity about American history that in my mind is priceless. My dad thought Cari's interest in historical events was so wonderful, that he and his wife, Trisha, decided to send an early birthday gift.

Cari is eagerly opening her early birthday gift.

Could it be??? It is!!! An American Girl!!!

Cari and Elizabeth, which is Felicity's
best friend. Cari was very intrigued
with this time period, often wondering
what it would have been like to live
during these times. Thanks to these
books, she gets a glimpse into the world
during these times.

Cari, calling Grandpa Ingalls and Trisha
to thank them for such a wonderful
and thoughtful birthday gift.