Happy Birthday Ivory,

Cake+photo credits: cakesinc.wordpress.com+craftstorming.com

Butterflies Are Changelings; Elephants are Changeless

So many years have passed since we first met. You, an infant, staring at us with those wide, wondrous eyes. You weren’t sure whether you should smile or cry, so you simply grimaced. How wonderful this was to parents who had spent nine months anticipating this moment despite months of pain, anguish, and hospitalization. Neither you nor I were expected to live, yet God in His infinite mercy kept us both, and now, we are still here, still loving, and still gazing with wondrous eyes at everything around us.

From Momma:

We work well together, Ivory. You, with your quiet, introspective nature, and I, with my spontaneous, self-reflective nature. You are understatement; I am overstatement. Yet this combination of characteristics makes us an effective team. I am the hare; you are the tortoise. You need me to prod you along, and I need you to suggest caution. I hope that we both are equipped to reach the goal.

Our family members have similar talents and interests. It takes all of us supporting one another to produce results. There is great joy in teamwork, and the years build strength and solidity.

Life has a way of carrying us along on a swift current to places we never dreamed could exist. While on this journey we see miraculous things while in the midst of experiencing sorrows and joys. Both of these states of being can strengthen us because what colors our view of the world is how we respond to our environment and beyond. If we have been nurtured it will show, just as mistreatment will. It is in the power of those around you to make a positive impact or a negative impact on your life. It has been my goal to not only do what is right by you, but also to live it out. There is no concept of do as I say; not as I act. There is a great responsibility to help you to attain those goals that are the fabric of your dreams. We all have a right to dream, and without vision there would be no hope. The butterfly in you hopes and dreams, and the elephant in you anchors and makes those dreams attainable.

The symbolism of the butterfly is that of metamorphosis, beauty, strength, and variety. The elephant symbolizes steadiness of character, fierceness, longevity, and fidelity. You possess traits that are a combination of both, even though they may seem to be opposites. You are infinitely unique, and the man who captures you for his own will be blessed.

Keep dreaming your dreams, and set your course on a sure current. Below: A gift of song from Mom and Dad.

Love and Kisses, Momma and Papa @JYJFantalk