Five years ago today

Dearest Kate Emerson Ru,

It was exactly 5 years ago today that we saw your sweet face for the very first time (in her referral photo; not in person).  Five years ago today my heart began to grow in ways I never could have imagined.  On that special day, God revealed to us who had been chosen for our family. What a blessing that day and every single day since has been.

You have brought such laughter and joy to our household.  You make us laugh so hard at the dinner table (and you always have).  You have softened the boys and you have taught us all things about ourselves that we needed to learn.  We all love you fiercely.

As I have blogged about before, when I saw your referral photo standing in the streets of China, I had so many questions. I wanted to know everything about you. I could not wait to get to know that little (BIG) personality inside of you.  Today, we are such buddies.  I know you better than anyone in the world.  I am your biggest cheerleader.  You are my snuggle bunny.  You are my sunshine.

For our mini shoot today...Kate started out kinda serious.  But in true Kate style, she got fun and silly.  She thought it would be fun to turn the photo sideways:)

{For those of you new to 3 peanuts, you can read about the first time we ever saw Kate's referral photos here (it is a good story) and here.  Every year on February 1st, I take a photo of Kate holding her referral photo.  You can see all of the years here . }

My sweet dumpling just said, "Mama, I was wondering if you'd like to watch Miss Spider's sunny patch kids with me?"  And guess what---- I cannot think of one thing I'd rather do right now.  So, I am off to cuddle and watch with her:)  I am so blessed.

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.  Jeremiah 29:11.