13 YEARS AGO

our beautiful Ally was born. These 13 years raising her has been one of God's greatest gifts to Kevin and I.

I remember that day so clearly, driving to the hospital in a snow storm, wondering to myself, could I ever love another baby as much as i love Sawyer, anticipating and dreaming what our little girl would look like, the labor for her to enter the world was - let just say WOW!! - never had and hopefully never will expereince that much pain. But i remembe rmost the feeliing of complete joy and love and awe when she finally made her way into this world and into my arms.

A beautiful baby girl with lots of thick black hair staring up at me, looking over at Kevin and seeing his daddy love and protectiveness for her bubble over and knowing this little girl was going to be a joy.

And right from the start she was, big brother sawyer loved her even through the months of colic, but by 3 month she was over that but her determination came through at a very young age. Walking at 9 months, talking at 10 months and keeping up with her older brother and mothering her younger brothers.

I have seen so much growth in ally over the years, her caring heart, her get it done personality, her love for little kids, her "nobody is going to walk over me" attidude and the way she is a great sister to her three brothers, and her sense of justice that lays deep in her heart. I listen and see dreams that God is giving her at a young age, and this sense of adventure.

I am so blessed to be called Ally Kay Smith's mom. I have learned so much about Jesus through her young life.

This is my prayer for you Ally - that you would become like Esther, standing tall for the the Lord, and humbling your heart in obediance to HIM, and knowing that you are a daughter of the KING. I pray that whatever comes your way in life that you share all of it with Jesus - He will be there and work in all things. I pray especially Colossians 3:12 that this truth would abide in you

Therefore, God's chosen ones, holy and dearly loved, put on heartfelt compassion, kindness, humlity, gentleness and patience....above all put on love - the perfect bond of unity.

Teenager, I look forward to help navigate you through these exciting years Ally, thank you for being the very special daughter you are. You keep shining for CHRIST. I love you more than words could say. And I cant wait to see how God works in these next few years to mold you and make you more like HIM.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ALLY - and as much as you dont like birthdays - we are celebrating you!!!