Living Life for Lans: Meet Marina

So you know how I told you Ben was dating again? Well at that point he had been on a handful of dates over the last couple of months with a few different people. And several dates with a girl he seemed to click instantly with named Marina.

We have continued hearing about this lovely person for a month now and I finally had the chance to meet her briefly on the fourth of July.

Ben has described her to me and my mom and your mom as "peaceful" and that "every time she is around everything gets better." He told your mom, "Lana would really like her." Marina helped him paint your parents house to get ready for renters and helped him repaint your boys rooms before the nanny moved in. He said she bonded with your boys almost instantly and that when she leaves they cry.

Just like with you, they met and have been together pretty much every day since. We like her Lans. She has two little boys too who are 8 and 10 if I remember right. Ben said they are great boys and I believe one of them is an accomplished piano player. I hope to meet them soon, but they are gorgeous boys from their pictures. Marina speaks a few languages and just finished her second masters degree in psychology. And from my brief meeting I see the "peaceful" Ben has mentioned several times.

Your mom said to me a few weeks ago that Ben talked to her about how things seem to be stabilizing and falling into place at last - she and your dad moved close by, a full time nanny will help him work full time at the store (which has been doing well) and then Marina has somehow brought a smile to his face. Your mom said, "Ilana must be working over time up there."

So keep up the good work Lans! All these good things will hopefully bring your boys an even greater sense of love and security. We miss you every day. We carry you with us everywhere.