twinkle, twinkle little one

Lucy had her very first dance recital last night.  I have to tell you, it was a major dream come true for me.  From the moment the ultrasound tech told me, "It's a GIRL", I started weaving dreams for this wee one.  I am not sure why a dance recital was one of my first and most vivid daydreams, but there it was.  I feel to blessed and thankful that not only did that day come, but Lucy loved it and had an absolute blast participating.  Truly a miracle when one considers the type of child she was for the first 2 1/2 years of her life! 

Part of what made this such an extra special experience is that we were able to go through it with a couple of our dearest friends.  It was so fun for me to be able to spend the practices and the flurry of activity leading up to the big night with my dear friend Mandy and also make some new wonderful friendships with other Moms in the process. 

So this is the best family photo out of about 20 taken...,sigh.  Maybe it's time we get a professional involved!

The recital itself was so cute!  Of course, the actual routine was a bit crazy, not at all like what they practiced and completely adorable.  There is video floating around and if I get my hands on it, I will post it.  Lucy and Carlie did a great job though! 

Afterwards, Lucy was delighted to see Papa and receive roses and a bear with a costume matching hers. Such a sweet sweet relationship these two have.

Due to a last minute recital date change, none of our family were able to attend but we felt so loved by our friends coming out to support us!  We are so thankful that the Adlers attended, and it meant a lot to Lucy and Carlie that their bff Myles was there!  I think he was stunned by their appearance at first and was so shy around them.  Soooo sweet!

Brandy with her 2 girls.  As she said herself, and demonstrates over and over, she loves them as if they were her own.  And they love her too!  Thanks for the pretty flowers, Brandy, Dan and Myles!!!

A beautiful night, a beautiful girl.

A beautiful life.

This is the song that they danced too.  Suprise, suprise, I can't listen to it now without shedding a tear or two or downright sobbing!  I believe it will always trigger my strong emotions surrounding my love for my precious little girl.  WOW, this was such a sentimental post.