Seventeen Years.

17 years ago today, God changed my entire life when He allowed me to become a Mommy to the most precious little girl ever born. I am still in shock that the beautiful baby girl I brought home from the hospital 17 years ago is growing up before my eyes. I love this girl so very much. She made me a Mommy. My dream when I was a little girl was to be a Mommy and my precious Ashton made this dream come true.

I truly cannot believe that she is already seventeen years old...How does that happen!? How do you blink and right before your eyes your baby grows up. 

Before I know it she will be a senior in high school. then to college. then getting married. having babies. and she will be right where I am now. It's amazing to watch and even though I will have tears in my eyes, I cannot wait to see her fly. 

Ashton inspires me daily. She loves Jesus. She loves orphans, special needs children, China and Uganda. This summer, Ashton was blessed to spend two weeks in Uganda. I was blessed to get to watch her blossom in the place she loves so dearly. Ashton had a glow in her eyes while in Uganda that I have rarely seen. I can't wait to see where God leads my girl in the future and I am sure it will be great. Ashton loves her family and her siblings. {They do fight though, trust me} She embraced our adoptions from China and it truly changed her life forever. With her help and God's guidance we brought Andrew and Ainsley home. She amazes me. 

She shares her special day with her sweet sister, Ainsley. How full circle and amazing is God? He gave me my first baby on September 20 and he is giving me my last (I probably shouldn't say that) baby on September 20. Ashton posted a blog about Ainsley here. Ainsley and Ashton are the best of friends. Even though they are fourteen years apart, they adore each other and can almost always be found together. It's a beautiful bond these sisters share.

Happy Birthday to the greatest blessing in my life, Ashton. 

You made me a mommy ♥ Every year I realize how blessed I am by you-You are one of a kind. I am so proud of the young woman you have become. You have a heart that amazes me and I cannot wait to see where God will lead you-Whether it be to Uganda, China or right here at home, I know you are going to do great things. This summer was so hard as we watched you board a plane to live out your dreams. I can't imagine being that brave, yet you changed lives forever. Our lives are better because of you-I love you more than you will ever know and I am so grateful to be your mom. I hope this is the best birthday ever!

Forever, 
Mom

Would you guys do me a favor and wish my girl a happy birthday?