My Baby!! 21

My "baby" turned 21 last week. (hmm, my baby with an extra 21, is now 21).

We bustled through the festivities, but today ....... my emotions have arrived.

What a journey it has been ....... and continues to be ....... how BLESSED we are!!

1-19-1990

The Miracle Factory

Once upon a time, three angels were busily working in the miracle factory. They were responsible for wrapping up all the little miracles and sending them on their way. Normally, they wrapped each one in bright, sturdy paper with big, shiny ribbons. They stamped it with a delivery date and away it would go to the parents who eagerly awaited its arrival. Things usually ran pretty smoothly. One day, however, down the conveyer belt came a little miracle that made the angels pause.

"Oh my," said the first angel "this one's uhm.. well, different."

"Yes, his is unique" said the second angel.

"Well I think he is quite special," said the first angel "but I don't think he will quite fit our standard wrapping procedures."

And the second angel added, "And we know he's special, but will everyone else?"

"Not a problem," said the third angel "obviously a special miracle deserves extra special wrapping; and of course we'll send him off with our most heartfelt blessings. Then everyone will see how special his is."

"What a wonderful idea!" replied the others.

So they searched the shelves high and low for the finest paper, and their most delicate ribbons. When they were done, they stood back and admired their work. "Beautiful!" they all agreed.

"Now for our blessings," said the third angel "for it is time for him to go."

"I will bless him with innocence and happiness," said the first angel.

" And I will bless him with strength to face the many challenges that lie ahead" said the second angel.

"And I will bless him with an inner beauty that will shine on all who look upon him" said the third angel.

Before sending him off the third angel, who was very wise, gently tucked a note inside. And it said:

Dear Parents,

Today you have received a very special gift.

It may not be what you were expecting,

And you may be disappointed, angry and hurt.

But please know that he comes with many blessings,

And while there may be pain, he will bring you much joy,

He will take you in a very difficult journey,

But you will meet many wonderful people.

He will teach you patience and understanding

And make you reach deep inside yourselves to find a source

of strength and faith you never knew you had.

He will enrich your lives,

And will touch the hearts of all who meet him.

He may be fragile,

But he has a great inner strength.

So please handle him with care,

Give him lots of attention,

Shower him with hugs and kisses,

Love him with all your heart,

And he will blossom before your eyes.

His spirit will shine like the brightest star for all to see,

And you will know that you are truly blessed.

Author Unknown

Thank you, dear son, you have changed who I am.

God is Good, and You are perfectly God's plan!