"firsts"

my birthday was fantastic this year.  really, the best yet. it's the last of my 20s...and i'm facing it excitedly.  the whole day was awesome...full of phone calls, texts, drop bys, and celebrations.  it also brought the first of several kinds of gifts that were such a blessing to me....

 my first taiwan gift...taiwan flag key chain...my new prayer reminder when i get in the car :) such a sweet thought.

 

 our sweet potato(es) first gift-ish...their fund...complete with some starter money. i have some incredibly encouraging, thoughtful friends...been adding all our spare change and art sales to it...it's growing!! :)

my first mommy gift...and mommy card!! eeks!! still setting in that it's me! a journal to write or draw in about our little bit...perfect for creatives like us :)

and our first "family" gift...this one's from my sister! she said the devotional starts december first and includes readings from genesis and on through the bible that proclaim christ's coming and arrival as well as some family activities if interested.  she said she and her family (of 5 kids) read it together each year and go through it.  the thought of a new family tradition like this melts my heart.  we'll read it this christmas in preparation and try to image how it could possibly look next year this time.

jacob and i are trying to think of something small/inexpensive we can purchase to help it feel more real...like a onesie or something...gender neutral and at least a one year size (in case their hefty sweet potatoes ;) ). but still thinking on that...will probably just end up waiting til we have a referral and ca be more specific. but the whole day was a blessing and i was overwhelmed by friends and family.  truly. our child(ren) are going to have such an amazing community to be apart of.  thank you ALL so much!!