Nine Months Old

Our foster daughter is 9 months old today. She has been with us since she was three weeks old.  She is a blessing to our family in so many ways. She brightens our mornings with her laughter and smiles.  Her big toothy grin has become her trademark look. You will often hear toddler Joe calling for her to "watch" what he is doing, and she gladly obliges. Little Joe often gravitates near her while he reads or just to watch her play. She is a snuggle bug after a bottle especially near bedtime, and I love it. She is interested in Joe's hair and face. It is a hoot to watch her go after him.  She started "commando" crawling a couple weeks ago and is everywhere. She sits up pretty well, but still topples over. Lots of babbling, and she will wave if you greet her.  

I love this recent picture of my girl at the beach. To say that she enjoys the ocean is an understatement. She can't get enough of the waves! She loves for me to dip her down right when the wave is about to crash. Lots of kicking and squeals of excitement. I think both boys are surprised at how fearless she is. She may be our all star "water bug".

We don't know what the future holds, but we have this sweet child now! We cherish each day as a gift with all our children not knowing what the Lord's good plans are for them.

Smile

These pictures are sweet and comical to me. I found them as I was trying to organize some pictures. Apparently, Joe had a photo shoot with the boys for Mother's day before church. Attention spans getting low. Some hamming it up for the camera.  Little Joe has had a hair cut since then, although he did protest.

This picture shows what most days are like. Shepherding a willful, determined child while the other needs encouragement on focus and attention. I am reminded more than ever of my great need for the Savior. I sadly admit I am prone to impatience and frustration all too often instead of a gracious loving response.  It is sin. I am more concerned about my expectations being met than displaying the gospel.  Praise God for His Spirit and His word bringing conviction and truth to my heart.  God has wonderfully and mercifully given me the children that I need! It is an honor to be their mother.