It’s so hard to believe that it’s been 20 years since we welcomed our second daughter into the world. Where has the time gone? Our little girl has grown into a beautiful young woman, but it seems like just yesterday we were welcoming her into the world.

Never let it be said that God doesn’t have a wicked sense of timing. We had waited 2 years to start trying to have a 2nd child, and after 2 more years of silently mourning each time it was obvious that I wasn’t pregnant, I had finally resigned myself to the fact that maybe we were only meant to have one child. So I resolved to go see the doctor “the next month” to go back on the Pill.

Only “next month” never came.

Rachel loves her little sister

Instead, 9 months later we welcomed Michelle into the world. She was sweet and beautiful and we were all so happy. Bill Cosby always says that a family isn’t REALLY a family until they have 2 kids (because without siblings squabbling…..). We were lucky, because Michelle always got along with her big sister.

Daddy's Girl

Michelle has always been the imp. When it comes to all of God’s creatures, she’s always been a softie for almost all of them. I still remember when she was 5 or 6 and saw an episode of “Animal Hospital” and told us she had to “Give a tear” when she saw a puppy with a fishhook caught in its throat.

The only known picture of Michelle in a dress.....

Most kids have puppies or kitties – we’ve learned through the years to co-exist with all kinds of creepy, crawly, slimy things (although I drew the line at a python – I have my limits!). While her sisters played with dolls and tea sets, Michelle was always outside looking for critters. It wasn’t much of a surprise when she decided to major in Wildlife and Fisheries Science in college.

At least she didn't bring it home -

We are so very proud of her, and we can’t wait for the day when she gets her Aggie Ring. She’s the only one of our girls who will be carrying on that tradition, so that will be a very special day, indeed.

It has been such a wonderful journey, watching our little girl grow into a confident woman. We are enjoying the transition from “parents” to “friends” – while we will always be Mom and Dad, we are enjoying watching Michelle find her way in the world. She is a truly remarkable young woman who isn’t afraid to stand for the courage of her convictions, even when faced with overwhelming opposition. We are so very glad that God made her a part of our family.

Happy Birthday, sweetie – we love you dearly!

Our beautiful girl