February-September 2007 Update

“You have filled my heart with greater joy.” Psalm 4:7

When last I wrote – I was in preparation for Alivia’s 2nd birthday! It was a wonderful event with a Backyardigans theme. Her birthday also was the Chinese New Year. After church, we had lunch at the local Chinese restaurant and then we were grateful for our friends (Tammy and Deron) to allow us to have her party at their house (as we still had no kitchen cabinets in our new home). We had a special time with everyone as I asked each one to describe, “What has Alivia meant to you in the few months since she has been here?” It was quite emotional listening to each and every response. Alivia, I pray you know that in such a short time you have blessed many.

Much has been happening these past few months. Having a 2-year-old keeps one very, very busy! BUT, I am here to tell you we all are LOVING every minute of it. She is a “JOY” that fills our soul. We are so blessed. The feelings that Alivia stirs up in us (Doug, Me, Mary and Dougie) are no different. Each day, we wake feeling as though we can't possibly love her anymore than we already do for fear that our hearts may burst. We cannot imagine our lives without her. It is the most AWESOME feeling in the world.

As we approach the one year anniversary of GOTCHA DAY (September 18), I have spent much time reflecting on all the “firsts” Alivia has experienced since being placed in my arms. Here are just a couple that I would like to share: first hugs and kisses from a Mommy and Daddy, first cuddle time, bedtime story, toys, Halloween (she was a ladybug) Thanksgiving turkey, Christmas presents, first church service, first Bible, first prayers, first birthday party and birthday cake, first Happy Meal from McDonald’s (French fries are her favorite), first trip to WalMart, first family vacation (to Washington, D.C.), first Vacation Bible School at our church, first overnight stay without Mommy and Daddy and she did wonderful (thanks to the Hume family), first 4th of July, many more; too numerous to mention.

Our precious Livi goes nonstop from sun up to sun down. I’d give anything to have half her energy. She is so intelligent. What an amazing child. She is now talking in sentences, learning so much daily. In the past few weeks, she has just taken off by leaps and bounds. It is hard to believe that she has been with us for almost a year. My, how the time has flown by. She is such a loving and caring little girl. Her infectious smile, wonderful disposition and love for life remain constant.

A few of Alivia’s favorites are: giving kisses, being held, being tickled by Daddy, story reading with Mommy, playing house and dress up (with Sissy’s jewelry), rocking and feeding her “babies”, singing and dancing, bathtime, going swimming with Mary, Mickey Mouse (we have planned a trip to Disney World for April), Sundays at church (loves the singing and all the people and can sit through a service very well for a 2-year old).

Most cherished moments for Daddy and me: hearing her say “I love you”, receiving wet kisses, watching her pray, hearing her say Amen afterwards, seeing her praise the Lord while singing at church, watching her sleep at naptime, kissing boo-boos, reading stories at bedtime, just taking the time to watch her as her imagination soars during playtime. I could go on and on.

Alivia and I continue to enjoy our days together. When I am at home spending time with Alivia, it feels as if you are miles away from everything outside of that time together and nothing else matters. She is quite a homebody, but on the days I go to work at the church, I am blessed to be able to take Alivia with me. John and Bill, our church ministers, look forward to her coming through the door bouncing and smiling. They play patty-cake, read stories and just have a wonderful time together, which of course helps me a great deal as I could not imagine having to leave her with a sitter to go to work.

I must give a special THANK YOU to my eldest daughter, Mary, for all her help with Alivia over these past several months, especially during the summer. You have gone way above the call of duty as a big sister. You are the best! You have helped me more than you will ever know. I am so proud of you for your nurturing and love for your baby sister. You will make a great mom someday!

Just need to give shout out to Livi’s big brother, Dougie, who continues to serve in the US Air Force in England. We love and miss you so much! Counting the days until you are home for your visit in a few weeks.