4 Ever and Always

As I gaze into those eyes looking back into mine so long long ago, I find it hard to believe that 4 years has flown by almost as if a dream, just a wisp of time and yet so many happy memories we have shared, so much laughter, so much heart melting love...I just can't image a day, an hour when you were not my daughter. I knew you long before I held you, you were there all along in my heart and my dreams.

We celebrate 4 years of wonder and joy today, your adoption today into our family. The day we were blessed to call you our own. Our beloved daughter. You shine so bright and bring such a light into our world that was missing from our lives. We never knew we needed you more than you could ever need us...but looking into your eyes I see that you did need us too. You found roots to grow and wings to fly and each day we watch as you grow into a lady. Each day you amaze us even more than the day before because you are starting to learn and respond to the world around you. You love to sing out loud and cavort in front of a mirror, but in front of strangers you are suddenly shy. Talking, oh man, do you LOVE to talk! Talk, talk, talk...endless chatter :) Luckily you don't mind a one sided conversation most of the time, in fact you prefer to do most of the talking...often in a very bossy tone to the chagrin of your brother...and sometimes even your parents! You are a born leader...just need to work on your people skills a bit....;)

I wish for you a year of laughter, friendship and learning. Explore new things, grow deeper in your blossoming faith - your "prayer cheer" is a very lively new addition to our meals. "GOD IS GREAT, GOD IS GOOD, LET US THANK HIM FOR OUR FOOD, AMEN!!!" shouted out in your loudest voice and with power nucks at the end is just so awesome and I know God is looking over us with a great big smile on His face.

I pray that you will always dream sweet dreams, we didn't have a home this time last year but our "hotel home" was filled with love and laughter each day. Today you have your Princess room which you convinced us to paint pink and is filled with all your favorite stuffed animals and vibrant colors that you love; pink, green, purple, blue and orange.

Your favorite foods are macaroni and cheese, hot dogs and french fries....oh and broccoli...glad you like a healthy veggie! You love most fruits but not bananas.

You named your first cow this spring "Sweet Pea" came up with it all by yourself too. You are very brave and loving around the animals and love to help me dig in the garden. You even love helping around the house...and you enjoy it! Dishes, making the bed, sorting laundry, dusting...whatever the task that needs doing you tackle it with gusto and a big smile...you ask me if you CAN do it, not vise versa...so unlike your momma in that aspect...I could learn a thing or two from you there! *Momma doesn't like housework

You have become my little shadow, and love to follow me everywhere I go...so I hope that I am setting a good example for you to follow. I pray I am leading you in the right direction.

I look forward to all the year holds for our family. You are a treasure and I love you my dear sweet sweet Jaiden! May God hold you and guide you and keep you safe all of your days.

All my love,
Mommy