Wednesday, October 08, 2008

SEVENTEEN!






Dear Lauren,

Happy Birthday! It has been a beautiful day today. The weather was absolutely gorgeous and it is a glorious day.

We had nothing big planned for the day, but instead just some family time. Your sister and brothers all made you cards and decorated your room after school to surprise you when you came home. As usual you were absolutely delighted and enjoyed every ounce of their effort. I peeped in on you this morning as you ran out to cheerleading practice in the wee hours of the morning, received the warmth of your smile as you darted off to school, and caught the joy in your eyes as you ate your dinner and headed off to youth group. Something in me wanted to grab you and make you stop. But I know I can't.

Seventeen years ago you made me a mom for the very first time and it seems each year goes by faster and faster. I am so thankful to the Lord for giving me such a gift in you. I just wanted to be a mommy, but He far exceeded my expectations.

Your compassion for others truly blesses me. I am humbled by your mercy and desire to see those who are hurting healed and those in need provided for. The only thing you asked for your birthday was to take a trip to Chicago to visit and pray for a young man from your school who is laying in a hospital bed. I asked if you were serious, and you said, "yes". I often say to myself, "when I grow up, I want to be just like her."

I love these photos of you because it was a very special day (date) you and I shared. I will treasure the memory, the moments and the conversation.

October 8, 1991 I sat in the hospital room at the end of the hallway in awe of the baby girl I held in my arms. Today I stand in awe of the young lady that God has placed before me.
Love,
Mom

14 comments:

Mocha with Linda said...

Precious, precious words. Sweet mom & daughter. Happy birthday to your girl!

Anonymous said...

Happy, happy birthday! You are one very wonderful young woman. We all love you so much. Your mom has described you so beautifully and we all agree!

Amie said...

Happy Birthday!! What a beautiful letter, Chris.

As I looked at the pictures of her and glanced over at your profile picture.....I almost couldn't tell who was who. :)

Adrienne said...

Happy Birthday Lauren. It seems like yesterday you were in my cabin at camp and now you are 17 how time flies. It is so awesome to see where God has taken you and what an awesome women of God you have become. It is so great to have been part of your life.

I pray for God's blessing & wisdom over you for years to come.

Beth@playinwiththepaulsens! said...

tears, there are tears! what a beautiful expression of your love for a girl I don't know but now I instantly love.

Melissa said...

I'm with Amie...she looks just like you!

What a beautiful soul she has. Happy belated birthday to you, Lauren!

Erin said...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LAUREN! I can't believe how fast time has gone and that you are seventeen! You are so stunningly beautiful, and I love to hear about your heart for God!

melanie said...

Happy happy birthday beautiful Lauren! -you are a terrific pumpkin bowler.. hehe.

Heth said...

Chris, your words are so beautiful. You have such a sweet, sweet daughter. She is beautiful but also has such a beautiful spirit.

Happy Birthday Lauren

Susanne said...

Happy, happy Birthday!

Kelly said...

Such a beautiful letter and a beautiful yougn lady! I am reminded of how quickly mine will be growing to that age. I must continually stop the craziness and cherish each day. Chris, you are a blessing:) Your daughter is blessed to have you.

Lisa Spence said...

What a beautiful young lady--may she continue to pursue the Lord with her whole heart!

Sarah@Life in the Parsonage said...

She's got her mama's beautiful cheekbones!

Love the letter.

Anonymous said...

That was such a beautiful and thughtful post.