October 21st....lots to celebrate

Exactly two years ago today, a little boy was born. 
He weighed 6lbs 14oz. 

Little did we know on that day, that our son's life here on earth, had begun. 

I wish I had pictures of that day. I wish I had pictures of his first few months of life..
I don't. 
But I do have a few from his foster mom.

Exactly one year ago today, a little boy became part of our family - forever.
On his first birthday, Levi officially became a  DeCarlo!

On our way to the courthouse - Adoption Day! 

Celebrating Levi's First Birthday. 

Little did we know how much he would change our lives! 

It was an emotional time as we stood before the judge and he declared Levi as our son - with all the rights of inheritance as a natural born child. The spiritual significance was not lost on us, or anyone else in the room. We, who have trusted in Jesus as Savior, become co-heirs with Christ. Adopted into the family of God - with all the rights of sons and daughters. 

Today, we stood before our church family and dedicated our son to the Lord. 
He is a gift from God and we desire to raise him to know and serve Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior! 

Three years in a row, October 21st has been a significant milestone in our lives, and in the life of one very special little boy.  

It sounds trite - it sounds like the thing everybody says, but truly....we can't imagine our lives with out Levi. He has brought laughs, and life, and a craziness we didn't know we were missing. 

His laugh is contagious.
He has the best sense of humor.
He is smart and sneaky.
He says, "I love you, mommy." (at the best and most random times)
He sings, and sings - his favorite song right now is "God's not Dead." 
He's crazy in love with his sisters and big brother.
He loves anything sports related, motorcycles, and school buses.
(Yep, he's all boy!)

We love this little man more than words can express!

Happy Birthday, big guy. 
Happy One Year Forever Family Day, buddy!

May you always know the love of our Heavenly Father and walk with Him all the days of your life.

17 years!

It hardly seems possible -
Dominic and I celebrated our 17th wedding anniversary on Saturday.
17 years....

                                    

We were young, and naive. He had only been saved a few months. I had unrealistic expectations of marriage. We moved 800 miles away from everyone I knew. In the world's eyes, everything was against us.

But, God!

He has a way of carrying us when we are weak. Guiding us when we are lost. Holding us together when all is falling apart. And that is exactly what He has done and continues to do.

All glory to Him!

We were able to get away for 2 whole days. Two days, just us and the beautiful southern California weather. A much needed break from the "real" world.
A much needed time to just be together.
Alone. Uninterrupted. Un-rushed.

So good!

Dominic's mom and sister came to stay with the kids. Such a special time for them to stay up late, eat junk food, and hang out with family! I am so blessed they were here - we didn't even call to check on the kids. We knew they were just fine! Well-loved and spoiled! Just the way it should be.

When I think about where the Lord has taken us, where we've been and what we've been through - I am amazed. And, oh so blessed that He still uses us and has a plan for us. Its good. So, so good.

Happy Anniversary, hubby. I love you more today than 17 years ago!

To God be the gory, great things He has done!