We call her our 3:16 baby. Born on this day of the Lord two thousand and eight, on the 16th day of March.
Just hours after her birth, as her mother held her in her arms, her eyes found mine and we each searched deeply. And there was this awakening in my heart. You know that knitting together with threads that are woven so tightly and the Lord is there, right smack dab in the center of the weave, never to be broken or snatched away. 
This strand that stretches from her heart to mine is held together by His grace. His magnificent, glorious, amazing grace. A transcendent gift of grace that surpasses anything on this earth.
And who am I that the Lord would lavish upon this me great, extravagant gift?
Yet, as the years press on, this gift becomes more and more precious to me and how can that be? How can my heart hold any more joy? How could I possibly love her anymore than I did that first instant or that first year or every year after? But here it is, this incredible love that first took seed and was cultivated by the Creator Himself, given by His own Hand.
And I think I finally understand just a little more of His love. The most powerful Love that ever was has given us a glimpse of that love through His gift of life, profusely bestowed upon us through our children and our children’s children. And it has been through this gift that I have learned more of the Gift givers heart. And the love that gushes out of our hearts upon the heads of our children came first from Him. It was from His Father’s heart that first loved us (1 John 4:10) and He said it in His word, “For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present no things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”(Romans 8:38-39)
I am so grateful to my Lord for giving me that most precious gift five years ago. I treasure every single second that I am so blessed to share with her. Every smile, every giggle, the laughter, playing dress up and barbies, cooking, sewing and knitting together. And yes, I am also grateful for even the ‘stinky’ moments. She has brought so much joy into my life and my heart is full because of her.
Happy 5th birthday Aria Claire! You are my dream!
But the mercy of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear Him, and His righteousness to children’s children. Psalm 103:17
The Portion of my Inheritance 
Peggy, your words touched my heart to tears! Beautifully written with so much love! Thanks for sharing!
Thank you so much Brenda!!!
just love your pics. shes such a doll.
Thank you Sharon!!!! :O) It was hard to choose just these few. hahahaha
You’re a wonderful photographer, and so lucky to have beautiful models in your own family! When I use to paint, I would have my daughter pose for me quite a bit. I especially liked working outside, I’m fortunate she was so patient!
Thank you! I would love to see your paintings! If they are anything like your dolls I know they are amazing! It’s extra special when our loved ones come along beside us in our passions :O)