We celebrated Katie's 2nd birthday last week. Not only was it a great party for all the kids, but it was extra special to Arielle and I. We met Katie in October, 2006. Katie was found abandoned in a garbage dump as an infant. She was very sick, suffering from complications due to HIV and not being able to keep any formula down. We saw this little baby dying and decided to give her extra love. After lots sleepless nights, really slow feedings, (1/2 ounce every 1/2 hour) lots of holding and attention, Katie managed to start keeping some food down. She was then strong enough to begin her ARV's. We watched baby Katie blossom into a happy 8-month-old baby who had then reached about the size of a small newborn. God called us to care for her and we are so thankful He has watched over her in such special ways.
We have thought about Katie and prayed for her since then, and were thrilled to be able to spend her 2nd birthday with her. We celebrated by throwing her a party complete with make your own fruit-loop and gummy lifesaver necklaces, birthday cake, and a special pair of crocs just for Katie. They even have charms "K" and "B" for 'Katie Bug.' She loved the whole party and finished it off with a massive fit- too much birthday style!
I can't even explain how much I love Katie and how much I care about her. She will forever be special to me and I will always pray for her. She is a miracle baby and such a joy in my life. Arielle laughs and has to call me a "beaming mom" a lot while I am with Katie. Watching her do absolutely anything makes me smile like a mom! Eating watermelon, walking, pushing a toy, sleeping, even when she throws fits, I love my baby girl!
3 comments:
Rach and Air- THat is such an adorable post. She looks sooooo grown up!!!!! I bet her fit was spectacular.
...(as you know) Katie is soooo special to our family. We LOVED that you brought her to see us on our first day there. You and Arielle did a really GOOD THING (God thing) in your nurturing Katie.
Love the new pics!
Rachiedad & mom
I just cried reading that post. The Word says, "God sets the lonely in families" and he has done so with Katie Bug in you girls. You have shown her the hope which He gave you. . .She has someone to LOVE her. You are just as much her mama in heart as I am to my 3. Thank you for that.
Crying at the goodness of God to a sweet girl half a world away,
Brandi
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