Lauren's 2nd Birthday...

July eleventh was Lauren's second birthday.  I will admit it was harder than I thought it would be to celebrate without her.  I had hoped and prayed that we would be together as a complete family by now, but God had another plan.  We are continuing to trust his plan but some days are harder than others. 

We decided to make it a positive day of celebration and not focus on the fact that we were not together.  We had a cupcake party at the park and celebrated with family and friends!  We were so thankful for everyone who came to honor this special day with us.  It was kind of strange to host a birthday party without the guest of honor but it went great!  At dark we lit Chinese lanterns in honor of Lauren.  Each family had their own lantern and they wrote notes to Lauren on them.  When the lanterns were floating up into the sky everyone started singing Happy Birthday.  It was so sweet. I am so thankful for our friends and family that came...

Isaac and my mom helped frost and decorate the cupcakes...

 

All the kids at Lauren's party, I realized much later that we were missing 3 girls from this picture and it's hard to get them all looking at the same time.

This is my Great Aunt and Uncle.  My Aunt is praying that she is still here to meet Lauren when we bring her home.  She has been battling lung cancer for awhile now.  It is my prayer too.

This is Reese.  We have decided she is going to be Lauren's best friend!

We have wonderful family and friends who got Lauren the most thoughtful and sweet gifts!  I loved all the home made cards too!  Lily, Lauren's best cousin/friend, is helping me.

Isaac cheering as the lantern lifts off!

 

 

 

Cousin Kole

 

 

 

 It was a wonderful evening and we can't wait to show Lauren the pictures one day when she is older.  She will be able to see that so many people loved her before they even knew her.  Next year her birthday will be even more special because, Lord willing, she will be home where she belongs...