It's getting late and I am tired but before I go to bed I wanted to share about one of my most favorite people... my Ava. For the last eight years this has been a bittersweet week for my family. It all started August 31, 2003 when my beloved grandfather passed away. My pappy was a man loved, respected, honored, and cherished by his family and so many of my greatest memories were of him. The passing of him was so painful for us all and on September 4th we laid him to rest. The very next morning I gave birth to Ava Elizabeth. As one life ended another began. Her birth gave our family hope and joy in the midst of our sorrow.

Ava's life came at a perfect time and his death and her birth was not a coincidence. Ava is probably the most giving person I know. She is always thinking of others before herself and it brings me to tears watching her big heart give and love. Her dream is to be a doctor so she can help people, she's even thrown around the idea of being a therapist like Willow has so she can help kids with special needs. While Ava has some time to think about what she wants to be when she grows up I am certain that she will spend her life loving and serving. I am thankful Ava came to us eight years ago today and I am thankful I have the privilege of watching this beautiful girl grow into woman. She loves Jesus and her family and the color green and barbies and mac n cheese. She is shy, loves music, has an eclectic style and can make me laugh with all her quick wit. She is a big package in a small body and WOW she is mine!

Happy Birthday to my Ava... I love you with all my heart.