It’s been four years.

FOUR years!!

Four years ago on July 14th, I held Eliza for the very first time!

What a blessed journey it has been!

We talk about our Forever Family Day anniversaries with Eliza and Tate as the date approaches.

And then we listen to their responses and let them choose how they would like to celebrate them – if at all.

Eliza wanted to celebrate!

She was VERY specific!

It was SO cute!

So we set our celebration for Sunday evening!

She wanted four presents since she has been home four years.

So four presents it was!

Eliza wanted to spend the afternoon in the pool!

Chad was glad to bless her and take the kids swimming, because it was 95 degree heat index on Sunday!

We also made a meal of her choice!

She wanted chicken, but chicken “with the skin,” mashed yams, asparagus (which she calls asparsssgus) wrapped in bacon, and grilled pineapple.

It was delicious!

Eliza also asked for a vanilla cake with vanilla chocolate chip frosting and strawberries on the side.

Addie will never say no to baking a cake!

And making it a beauty!

I think this photo says it all – her special day was a HIT!

I cannot even find the words for the emotions of celebrating Forever Family Days.

What a time of reflection.

What a time of thanksgiving and praise.

WHY?

Why did the Lord choose to trust us with SO MUCH?

It is never lost on me.

Or my heart.

We just simply are not worthy.

But we are ever so thankful.

Being Eliza’s Mama has been the most challenging and fulfilling thing I have EVER done.

I love her so fiercely that it makes me ache.

HOW FAR WE HAVE COME.

I am tearing up just typing these few words.

Eliza Claire, you are our sweet baby.

Happy, Happy Eliza’s Day, sweet baby girl!!!