Happy Sweet 16 Hannah

Yesterday (belated) our baby Hannah turned 16. I can't imagine her being 16 for more than one reason. For one thing, where did 15, 14 13 and 12 go? for another thing, how did I get this old?

Hannah was born in our bedroom at home in Arlington on a very hot July day. From the time she was born she was a delight, except for the first week of non-stop crying. 

She was a joy as a toddler. She was always smiling and everyone loved her. We started deputation when she was 9 months old and I'm sure she was responsible for the majority of our support. She was such a bright little girl and she stole many a pastor's heart along the deputation trail.

We arrived in Croatia 2 years short of her 3rd birthday. She was still learning to speak English when she began to learn Croatian. 

Her bright blue eyes and curly hair made for an adorable little girl. 

She loved to help Mom in the kitchen and was always mixing stuff and experimenting.

Hannah was and is always smiling. She's always singing and she has a real song in her heart. She has a lovely voice and uses it to praise the Lord. 

She's growing into a lovely young lady. 

Hannah has been a joy to parent. She has never complained about being on the mission field and she's a huge help. She has a heart for the Lord and for those in need. She has always been drawn to the needy and she has the ability to find a hurting heart and be there to comfort. She feels that the Lord would have her spend her life sharing the Gospel with the deaf. She has already been able to work with the deaf and she's is learning ASL and Croatian signing also. 

Her Dad and I love her so much. We are so thankful that the Lord allowed us to be her parents. We are excited to see what He's going to do with her life. 

                         We love you Hannah,

                                Happy 16th Birthday!!