Alyssa's Birthday

Today is Alyssa's first birthday. It truly breaks my heart but at the same time this is the day that God blessed us with her. I can't help but cry and at the same time rejoice.

One year ago our world was turned upside down. I was flown to Columbia for an emergency C-section not knowing whether I would ever see my little girl alive. But God gave us time with her and I am so thankful for that.

We got to see how she always wanted her left foot outside of her snuglet. Every time the nurse would put it back in, she would always find a way to stick it back out. We got to see how she wanted to know everything that was going on. If someone came into the room she would always look. One day she started to get upset at a doctor who she could not see. That's when I realized that I had a feisty little one on my hands (FLO for short). We were able to read to her, to sing to her, and to place one giant finger in her tiny hand. We had really good days and really bad days. We were told that she wouldn't make it but she made it 11 days more than what they thought. Our little girl was a fighter and an inspiration to many. My little girl, my precious angel who would be turning 1 today.

How my heart aches. I should be choosing her party outfit and theme. I know one day we will be together and for that, my heart rejoices. I like to think that when that happens we'll have the biggest, awesomest party ever. I mean, Jesus and my little girl will be there and that in itself makes it awesome!

We decided to get a cherry blossom tree for her birthday. We'll plant it at church. Cherry blossoms were what Alyssa's room was going to be decorated in so I think that tree is more than fitting for our little girl. I think we may get a cake because we want to celebrate her birth. What better way to celebrate than with cake?

So Happy Birthday, my sweet little girl. Be on the lookout for the balloons we are sending up. We love you so much!

Empty Nest

Ok so it's been a loooong time. But my family visited to include my mom, sister, and brothers! They stayed with me for almost a month. It just made me realize how much I want to be near family. Especially since my brothers are growing up so much. We had so much fun hanging out. And I had to take them to the airport today. Booo!

Jamie is finishing up his last red cycle (yay!). Who knows what God has for us (or where actually) in the near future. Everything is up in the air. I really really reaaaaaaally want to stay here. I honestly thought I would never say that. But this is where my heart is right now and I want to continue to be involved in my church and the foundation (of course!). Here is a picture of us having fun with the photo booth. Ahhhh I miss them.