Ruthie's Party

A Two-year-old child is so many things --
A tiny discoverer of butterfly wings,
A hugger of Teddies,
A sweet sleepyhead,
And someone to dream for in bright years ahead...

The beautiful Birthday Girl

The amazing cake made by Mrs. Mary Loyd(it was as yummy as it was gorgeous!)

Ruthie's "smash" cake!
Ruthie, Elizabeth and Julie
Ryan and Ruthie
My niece, Caroline, and Ruthie
Ruthie and Julie
Coloring...ladybugs of course!
Sidewalk chalk
Ruthie and her cake
She LOVED the slide!
I love how excited she gets about every new thing! I want to look at life like she does.

She clapped for herself after blowing the first candle out..so cute!


Most of our local China friends. Aren't they beautiful?!
Ruthie with my mother
Opening gifts later at home

The Birthday Girl was pooped!


May all your wishes and dreams come true, sweet girl! We love you!

Happy 2nd Birthday Sweet Girl!

Two years ago today in the Shaanxi province of China, a lady gave birth to a precious child that she knew for whatever reason she couldn't keep. I can't imagine what making that decision felt like or how hard it must've been for her. I have thought of her all day and wondered if she thought of that baby today and if she ever wonders what happened to her. I have prayed for her in hopes that she has found peace with her decision and knows in her heart that the baby she couldn't keep has a family and a home where she is loved beyond measure.



One year ago today, that same sweet baby girl was in an orphanage in Xianyang City celebrating her birthday with her crib mate. The nannies at the orphanage planned a party complete with crowns for the guests of honor, a huge cake and a handmade birthday card signed by all the orphanage workers. I have prayed for the nannies today, that God would allow them to keep loving the sweet children of China and preparing them oh so well for their forever families. I have also prayed for the children at Xianyang City Social Welfare Institute, that God would provide all of them with loving families soon.



Today that sweet girl is turning two....at home! She is now with her family and is experiencing all that goes along with having a birthday with your family. She has been awakened with what was probably not a very pleasant rendition of "Happy Birthday to you!" and has continued to be seranaded all day by different people. She has spent the morning being loved on and played with by her Mommy and Daddy. She checked the mail where she had some birthday cards. She had lunch with her parents and several friends where Miss Caryn came ready with an oatmeal pie and candles. She has had a home cooked meal with some of her favorites(rice and pork chops) with her family and birthday cupcakes for dessert! She will have a huge birthday party in a few days where she will be blessed by many people who have prayed for her, cried for her along with us while we were waiting and who truly love all that is Ruthie. I have thanked God today for this miracle whom I call my daughter and for the honor of being her mother. Happy Birthday precious Ruthie! I love you!

Tutu Cute!

This little outfit was given to me by a friend and it really makes my heart smile. I mean really, can you get any more girly than a huge pink bow, a pink tutu and a pink shirt with your name in rhinestones??? I didn't think so!!