Nearly a year ago today, my sister helped me put Lola to bed by singing songs and blowing kisses that my daughter pretended to catch from the comfort of her own bed.  My sister was in Africa.

This November, my entire extended family gathered in the kitchen of my aunt's home in suburban Chicago on Thanksgiving to watch my three children energetically burn off some pumpkin pie.  We were in Cleveland.

Today Lola called my mom, "Are you home yet?  Are you? Are you?  How many more minutes?  I'm getting so excited!"  My mother gave her clearance to open up the package that had arrived on our doorstep. Two early birthday presents for two girls from grandparents who will be traveling far away on business.  "I be home in 20 minutes.  Tell your Mama to start computer.  I watch you open."

My mother, father and Apolonia watched as the girls shrieked with delight after recognizing the boxes.  "Why it says American Girl and not Polish Girl?"  My father, Poland's number one fan, contributed by using his trademark humor sending waves of laughter through our wireless connection.

It's so awesome being connected. Really.