She has been a joy to have in our lives--the first month has brought lots of long nights, but also lots of sweet times of cuddling and just watching her cute little lips while she sleeps. Some "firsts" in this first month: she is holding her head up pretty well by herself (she was "headstrong" since the day she came out!) and we *think* she smiled at us this Thursday, but we're still not sure if it was intentional or not. We like to think it was! :-) She also is starting to have some "hang out" times where she is awake and not crying, which has been such a wonderful thing to enjoy! Eliana loves to eat, and has been given the nickname "bear" because of her attitude when she's hungry (which is quite often!)--she makes these cute little grunting noises, and has a very demanding appetite, so the name stuck!
Our daughter is an amazing gift, and one that has humbled us so much-- every time we think of the fact that we were given this beautiful, perfectly healthy little girl, we are astounded by God's grace, and also by the bravery and love of her birth parents. We did nothing to deserve the gift they have given us, yet they freely gave her to us...what a beautiful reminder of God's grace to us in Jesus! Happy one month birthday Eliana! We thank God for you everyday!
