a day to celebrate

Today is Eli's fourth birthday.

Not according to his birth certificate, but according to his birthmom. And that is reason enough to celebrate around here.

It is also his first birthday, in a way, as it is his first as a part of our family and Ethiopian culture doesn't traditionally celebrate birthdays.

And especially the life of a little one whose mother struggled to provide enough food for him to eat on a daily basis. I hardly think he ever got a cake. Or a song sung to him on his special day.

But it is his special day. And his life is worth celebrating.

And so we will. In a simple four year old way...

Pancakes for breakfast.
Park for playtime.
A few simple presents. (He doesn't want or need anything right now...why mess a good thing up!)
Extra hugs, snuggles, and I love you's.
And a party to come later in the week.

And for me, as his second Mommy...time to reflect and pray for his first Mom, whom I can't help but think about today and wonder if she is remembering this day in her heart?

I can't even begin to put into words my thankfulness for this child the Lord has allowed me to love. For what his life has taught me. And for all the amazing things that he is...

His crooked head, costume wearing, gator driving, funny, quirky, stubborn, resilient, gentle, observant, and very much loved self!

Happy Birthday Eli Cade!

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