Memories Forever

There are some periods of time in your life that you know you will never forget. Of course, as our second daughter Alaythia was born weeks ago, I knew in advance that this would be one of those times. But in many ways, it has been for reasons that I did not expect.

Of course, Alaythia's birth was exciting, nerve-wrecking, and tear-jerking for all the usual reasons and for a few extra. The time we spent in the hospital while Alaythia was in the NICU was difficult, but God has strengthened us through it all, and as My good friend Terry reminded me, "When the trials come, I can always know that the grace to get through it will come with the trial." (rough paraphrase, totally botched, but you get the point) More to come about Alaythia, and yes, yes... more pictures of her too.


Then of course the Hurrication that we all got thanks to Ike. That too is for another blogpost. And yes, that with many pictures as well. I got some great pictures; I can't wait. However...

This blogpost is about one of my new best friends. She is a princess. She is wonderful. She is Sophia. Of course, Sophia and I have always had a great relationship. But over the last few weeks, Sophia and I have had some really priceless moments together that have turned our daddy/daughter love into something phenomenal. While Claire had to be at the hospital with Alaythia in the Neonatal ICU, I had a whole week off of work to just hang out around the house with Sophia. This little girl amazes me with her tiny curiosity and massive personality. What started out as an adventure in merely babysitting turned into a relationship building week that has changed me forever. She has only been in our home for a year, and I dare use the trite phrase, "I didn't know I could love someone this much whom I have only known for such a short period of time."

The joy I have over my family is just a reflection to me of the infinite wisdom of our Creator, to give us this precious gift of relationships, love, children, and family. Praise God. Make His praise glorious.