Love you, Birthday Girl!

Dear Baby Girl,
Last night, we sat around our kitchen table with your cake in the center.  We all desperately wished that you were there, in the place of honor.  We wanted to take pictures of you smashing your cake.  Your brothers wanted to teach you how to get super messy and have some birthday fun.  They wanted to give you presents.  But, this is an unusual birthday party.  Because you were not here.  You are still in an orphanage half a world away.  But, we got amazing news.  Two wonderful women from our agency were there to visit you.  I know you will not remember them since you are only one.  But, they pulled out a gift for you from the supplies they brought with them and they promised to give you love from us.  I love the amazing way God provides.  I was feeling so sad to miss your first birthday.  But, God provided these women to be extensions of our arms.  And they promised to take new pictures of you for us. :)   You should know that we lit your candle and your daddy prayed for you.  We sang happy birthday extra loud (since you're so far away) and we all blew out your candle.  You will get to blow out the next one!  We can't wait for all of the wonderful memories we will make with you throughout your life.  You are special, you are loved and you are desperately wanted.  Orphan is a word that will never be placed on you again.  You are family.  We will walk with you through your tough times and we will celebrate your successes.  We may never live large financially, but you will always have something that money cannot buy...unconditional love...from a mom, dad, and four wild and wonderful brothers.  Sleep well, sweet E!  This new year of your life marks the countdown to coming home.