baby dedication

Yesterday at church we had Lily dedicated. It wasn't as emotional as it was when we dedicated Lance, but it was sentimental and a great reminder that children are a gift of God and we are responsible for raising them. We read a letter to Lily and here is our letter:

Dear Lily Madalyn,
Our sweet baby girl. We found out we were expecting you right before Christmas of last year and you finally made your arrival on 8-18-08, proving all the "theys" out there wrong. Despite looking so small to us, you were a big, strong, baby girl, just what we had hoped and prayed for. The first couple of weeks had some rough patches, but overall the adjustment was quite easy. For awhile we kept expecting for you to wake up and become unbearable, but you have just become easier to be around. You aren't without your quirks, but there are benefits to not going anywhere in the car and holding your every evening. You are so tolerant of your brother when he loves you a little too roughly or tired to get you quiet by hitting you. It was love at first sight for all of us, Lance included and we are so thankful you are a part of our family. We chose the verse Romans 15:13 for you. "May God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as your trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." Lily you have brought us so much joy, peace, and hope to our family and may you continue to trust in your Heavenly Father and be filled with joy, peace, and hope all your days. Words cannot express how much you mean to us and we look forward to getting to know you more and watching you grown into the beautiful child of God that you are. We love you so much.
-Your Mommy, Daddy, and big Brother Lance

I had a hard time writing the letter because I couldn't find the right way of describing how she has entered our family and fit in so seamlessly, there wasn't a huge, difficult transition and she really completes us. Lance is overall madly in love with her, he has his moments, but he is generally interested in her, he loves to hold her, kiss her, help diaper and bath her, and show off for her. I am so thankful for my sweet potato and I really can't wait to watch her grow, though I won't mind if she would stay little forever.