Lonia's Birthday

Things happen so fast that Lonia's first birthday slipped up without any warning. We had to have a party of course. Grandma, my sister and her family and Charlie and Teresa Bowen, Brandy and Haven were all present. We grilled hamburgers and hot dogs. Lonia loves hot dogs. We had cake and ice cream of course. She still isn't too sure about ice cream but she keeps tasting it anyway. She had her own special little cake. What did she grab and try to eat? The candle!!! Don't worry Dr. Gates, we didn't let her swallow it. We don't want any more obstruction, eruptions or emergency hospital runs. She really got into opening her presents. Haven just turned four and he showed her how to open the presents. She caught on quick and in no time was tearing them open. I am really sorry my pictures won't post because you need to see this happy little girl and all the progress she has made.

Every time I think of it, I am overwhelmed by the fact that this little girl has lived to see her first birthday by the grace of God only. She should have been just another statistic of infant mortality in Haiti, but she's not. It is humbling to think how God has used each of us to accomplish His will for this little girl's life. He definitely has something special in store for her. We ask for your continued prayers as she continues to gain strength each day.

Dee