Pages

Saturday, December 24, 2011

The Best Christas Present Ever

"For this Child I prayed" 

This child was prayed for, and longed for, and waited for.  Sometimes with patience, sometimes with tears but in all times knowing it is the Lord who gives all good and precisous gifts.  Mary Blake is a gift from the Lord. 
Mary Blake was born on October 11th, was brought home on October 31st and was declared officially adopted by the State of Alabama on December 19th.  
This sweet adoption ceremony was a family affair.
When we walked in to the judges chambers Cat and Gary first took an oath.  
The judge and lawyer spoke a few words and then Mary Blake was announced to be Catherine and Gary's child.  If you know their story, you know this was a true answer to prayer and a very emotional moment 
They are now officially a family of 3.  As the lawyer said, "this day is like a new birth day.  She is yours forever"  



I love this baby and I love being an aunt!  
mommy and daughter

We went to lunch afterwards to celebrate.  When we told the lady at the table next to us what we were celebrating she said, "now that's a good Christmas present" She is right indeed!

Waiting is hard, but one thing (of many) I have learned in waiting is that I think you appreciate something so much more when you wait on it.  It does not make the waiting easier, but it does make you thankful. We are treasuring this gift of a little girl.  God ordained the steps of this story and He picked Mary Blake long ago to be Cat and Gary's daughter. She was his perfect pick and for that we are thankful.  

Through another friend's story, I was reminded today of Isaiah 43:10 "you are my witnesses" declares the Lord "and my servant whom I have chosen that you may know and believe and understand that I am he".  Cat and Gary's story has, is, and will continue to be used for the glory of God in the lives of others.  The Lord has purpose in all things and his purpose is greater than ours.  I pray that not only will their story continue to be a encouragement to others, but that Mary Blake's life will be a blessing to others. 
 The Lord has a plan for this baby girl. I am thankful that I am her aunt and prayerfully I will always be a part of her little life. 

"To God Be the Glory"


2 comments:

dear love said...

Sweetest story ever. These pictures capture the day, and we are so blessed to see them. Such a joyful time. Love you all.

thewheelerfamily said...

This is so incredible! Thank you for sharing it. Cat and Gary have been constantly in my thoughts and prayers for a long time and I'm thrilled that the Lord heard their cry.