If I were....

...if I were a rich man...la dee dum, dee dum, dee da, de daa....you know that song, right? Fiddler on the Roof, a classic!
Well, if I were independently wealthy I would love to adopt Special Needs Children- especially Anton.

Isn't he precious??

Those children occupy a soft and special place in my heart- they always have. When I grow up; I hope to one day be able to work less and give more. More time and talents to these precious babies. More time to volunteer and make a difference. More time to bring smiles and a little bit of sunshine. 

Strange how a baby who lives across the world can have such an effect on us; Ryan and I find ourselves thinking about this little boy, a lot. Our hearts hurt for him and those children abandoned by their parents only because they were born less than perfect. 
It's wrenching to imagine some have never known love.
If I were a rich man......

Beautiful Gift

Ryan surprised me this Christmas with a very thoughtful and beautiful gift....a family portrait.

Not a "traditional" family portrait but the only picture we have as a family on the day Zoey passed away. 

It's special and I am grateful for a thoughtful, humble husband who remembers these small details and incorporates them into our lives.

It is placed in our dining room- a constant reminder of God's miracles and how blessed we are to have little Ayla in our lives. Ayla will be two years-old in February which is just amazing!

Two years has almost arrived and we are so grateful and happy that Ayla has been healthy since coming home from the NICU. A few minor colds and set-backs but she continues to progress and develop which is what we pray for....the only times she has been back to the hospital was for procedures and surgeries- no sickness.

How awesome is that? Especially when we were told that due to Ayla's micro-preemie status, lung bleeds and fragile health that she would probably end up back in the hospital many times before she turned a year old. And now she is almost two! If we can keep her healthy for another year it will only improve her chances for stronger health as she gets older; especially her lung health. So she remains under "quarantine" for another winter/flu season- a teensy price to pay for the opportunity for long-term stronger health. It's not a hardship for us; mostly because we didn't have much of a "social" life before babies! Plus, with all her cuteness and feisty attitude, she is great entertainment! 

Many, many 'thank you' to those who have prayed and continue to pray for Ayla- it works, and we are humbled by your faith.