I Love You Because...

Dear Puppy

Dear Sadie
 You have been the best puppy for our family. You've been with us through thick and thin, always there to lick our tears. Ethan got you for his 2nd birthday and no boy could have been prouder. He has showed you off to anyone within earshot, he's colored you, written stories about you, he's slept with you and he's given you all the food he's hated for the last 5 years. You've put up with him chasing you and pulling at you and poking you. There really is no other dog that would have been so patient and loving with him. You taught him how to be gentle and how to show love. Even after Lorali and Owen were born you immediately mothered them, laying by their cribs while they slept. Watching over them and then coming to get me when they stirred. You're a wonderful babysitter, Sadie. You've kept my feet warm every winter for 5 years, puppy. I'm going to miss that. Even though you get into the food on the counter, even though you run away, even though you don't come when you call... we have loved you and we know that throughout all of our faults, you've loved us too. We'll miss you. Giving you away has been a really hard decision for me. I knew the kids were going to cry and I knew that Lorali wouldn't sleep as good without you cuddled against her. I knew that our floors would be dirtier without you to pick up all the food Owen trails throughout the house and I knew that I'd miss you following me all day and laying by the door for us to come home when we were gone. The only thing that makes the decision easier is that I know you are going to a home that will love you even more than us. They are going to spoil you and love you and play with you. Abi is going to be the cutest with you and you will finally have a place to run and play without getting out. You are going to love Zoe just as much as you love my kids. Even though it's good for you and even though I know that it was the right decision, we will still miss you. I love you, Sadie Pup.
Love,
Joanna

Baby Zoe

Dear Baby Zoe
  I'm not sure you will ever realize how much you are wanted, needed or loved. You have just joined one of the most amazing families I have ever known. While I was kissing on you and visiting you last night I realized that God really does have his own time table and the tiniest amount of Faith can turn into something as amazing as you! The faith and trust your parents have put in Him is inspiring. I have been living my life over the last year frustrated that nothing goes according to my plans, frustrated with trying to live my storybook life and nothing being quite right. Oh goodness was I wrong. Zoe, I haven't been able to get you off my mind since so, THANK YOU for your precious Spirit and your quiet lessons. I love you and I am excited to see you grow up to be an amazing, smart and talented woman, just like your Mommy.
Love,
Joanna