Birthdays are more fun when you have friends on the other side of world. Birthdays can be 36 hours long then instead of only 24. Helen’s birthday is over in China right now. But, here in Philly, there are a few hours left still.

If she were here, I’d have tiptoed in the hallway after she had gone to sleep to hang streamers and balloons on her door as we do around here. I would have baked cinnamon rolls for breakfast that Caleb would have enjoyed and Helen would have respectfully declined. I would have made a big meal of one of her favorite of my recipes—pepper steak or broccoli and bacon rice bowls. I would have made some sort of cake-like dessert that also would have been too sweet for her, and we would have sung so loud that she’d cover her mouth and giggle in embarrassment. I can imagine it perfectly. Instead, she’s where she needs to be with her sweet little baby who is growing like crazy and her big little boy who is still missed by his roomie Drew.

Frank sent out an email today, a little update to the network of people who have come around them. He didn’t remind everyone it was Helen’s birthday, but the little bit he shared about her made me smile.

Helen stays home most of time, taking care of the kids, hosting visitors, tired but joyful. Caleb started kindergarten last month, with some adjustments here and there, doing pretty well, even though one year later than other kids, catching up quickly, making some new friends.

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Thank you for your support. We couldn’t do much without a family like you behind us.

Love,
Frank & Helen

This picture was attached.

Happy birthday to a dear friend, a woman God gave brought into my world at just the right time to grow me, and easily one of the most devoted mothers in the whole wide world.

I can’t wait to see her and those babies in October when I’m in China next.