Happy 2nd Birthday, Ella!

Two years ago this morning, I was attempting to walk down the hall of the maternity wing of Vanderbilt University Medical Center--hoping that the God of all gods would speed up my labor. I needed this baby outside of my body.

And, He came through. 10:53 am happened. And instead of pushing with pain, I laughed that baby girl out. Laughed.  Grabbing ahold of the my golden chariot, not a dry eye in the room, the glory of God in our midst, we laughed--then pushed--then laughed--then cried happy tears.

And she was here.

Since then, she has brought more challenge and more joy than we have ever known. I had no idea that I could live without having sleep for months.  I didn't know that I could change poopy diapers with such admiration--not to mention pump milk out of my body for over a year and a half.  The word sacrifice turned to the word priviledge.  Serving became a delight.  Love became almost too good to handle.

Our Ella Junebug.

Our little prophetic wonder. Intentional in all she does and yet she's just going with the Flow. Her discernment is keen, her wisdom already sharp, her personality proactive, her spirit sweet and sensitive.  Her giggles loud, her voice strong, she even wins over critics by her curly, golden locks and pure heart.

Oh, we love her.

We spent her special day eating birthday cake, skipping naptime and yet sharing precious cuddle time, shopping at Hobby Lobby (Well, Ella didn't shop--but she did wave around three huge, neon pink and green feathers throughout the entire store), eating her favorite spinach ravioli dinner, and buying her first fish.

She proudly dawned her first big girl, birthday necklace---a silver chain with charms that say "I Love NY". And heck, we bought one for Mama and baby sister, too. We're in this love affair of NY together. Daddy didn't get one, but he flew over NYC the same day we bought them--and he waved to the City.  Works for me.

And because she was close to exhausted by the time we came home with her birthday fish (no nap--remember?), she decided she'd name him tomorrow. A blue and green crowntail betta....red on his flowing tail. He's a looker.


Happy, Happy Birthday, Ella June! Way to reach 2 with so much wonder, grace, and divine cuteness! Always remember the rich legacy of those who have loved you and laid their lives down for you, be kind to everyone you meet, and forever live in the knowledge of the goodness of God. There is no limit to how far you can go!

A few birthday pictures.....