Birthday Gift

Today is my birthday, and I have the most precious gift given to me directly from my Father. It has been a little over a year since I received my referral for Belen. June 24 of last year was the first time I saw my daughter's face through three of the most prized photos. I remember sleeping with those pictures for the longest time (I made many copies). This time last year, I was elated and attempting to prepare for motherhood. There was no way of knowing that I would be thrown into the role of "mother" before I ever held my baby. I remember vividly my conversations I had with my family on my birthday. All of them focused on becoming a mom and preparing for my long awaited trip. Two days after, I got a call from my agency letting me know Belen was very ill, and we needed to pray. Immediately, I was thrust into motherhood. I grieved for my child as any mother would; I cried out to God continuously for three days until I heard she was improving. My tears of agony became tears of joy and praise. So, today isn't about growing older...it is about life and a new beginning. Hopefully, I have gained a little wisdom this past year. It has been the most beautiful and most difficult time of my 39 years.



I want to take time, as I have so many times this year, to thank my Father for my precious gift.

Time is Flying By

It has been about over four months since I have been home with Belen. It is amazing how life has changed. For the past several years, I had practically lived at and for my job. Now, I can't wait to leave work, so Belen and I can spend as much time together as possible. Belen is also changing. It seems that every day she is saying something new, progressing in what she will eat, moving a little farther along the couch as she tries to maintain her balance, or just making a goofy face to get my attention. Life is not perfect in our little house. In fact, I had my first major mommy meltdown last week as Belen and I sobbed together. Some days are harder than others, and I wasn't handling all of my responsibilities as a mom very well that day. Even though not all days are "Norman Rockwell" days, I have not ever experienced the joy that I have felt in the past four months.

Since I have not posted in a couple of months, I wanted to share some pictures from her birthday and the holidays.

I told you she makes goofy faces. This is the face she

makes when she wants sympathy. It is silly, but she knows I will

ask, "Oh, are you okay, Baby Girl?" every time she makes it.

Yes, I am a sucker.

If you look closely, you will notice she has wrapping paper in both hands.

That was her favorite part of the gifts...tearing the paper (and attempting to

eat it sometimes).

Belen loved her birthday cake!

She was enjoying her post Thanksgiving dinner at this point.
Belen began crawling the week of Thanksgiving. Now,
She pulls herself up and walks a little along things.

All wrapped up at Silver Dollar City. She was
mesmerized by the lights.