Dear Jaymi,
Seven years ago you were born thousands of miles away. I often wonder what I was doing on that day, March 1, 2007. If only I was better at journaling, I would know. I do know that I was a young married girl. Your dad and I had been married for just under two years. I was in my last semester of college in the middle of student teaching at a local high school. Life was really busy for us as we were both going to school and working. We hadn't thought much about starting a family yet as I knew I wanted to complete my degree so that when the time came to be a mom, I could do it full-time, like I had always dreamed. It seems crazy to me that such a huge event, your birth happened and I had no idea. I had no idea that MY daughter was born that day in Russia. I know that day was a sad day for your birth mother and father as they walked away from the hospital without their baby girl. They were told by doctors that you were severely handicapped and would need to be sent to an institution to live out your life. Your mom was so sad, she went back to the hospital days later because she wanted to see you. She was told that you were sent far away and they didn't know where. I know your birth mom loved you and her heart was broken for the decision she felt she had to make that day. She still loves you and always will.
Fast forward seven years and here we are. I wanted to make this birthday a special one for you. Last year we had just gotten home from Russia and we kept things pretty simple as we were all adjusting to our new life. You had been to a handful of birthday parties throughout the year so I knew you were getting excited for your own. I debated on whether to do just a cousin's party or friend party and decided to do both. I feel like a big part of you and Kaelyn's mission here on earth is to teach us all more love and acceptance. I thought inviting everyone from all area's of your life would be a great way to do that. We invited your friends from school, church, buddies with Down syndrome, neighborhood friends and cousins.
I also wanted to incorporate part of your Russian heritage, so we used the popular matroyshka doll as our theme. I came home with lots of these dolls from Russia over the year we adopted you. I have always loved nesting dolls and cherished the one my aunt Joyce gave me years ago from China. I loved making this cake for you. I was up late into the night getting it frosted, but loved every minute of it. I was definitely a labor of love and I hope you felt that as we celebrated your special day.
We couldn't forget the cupcakes, you sure love cupcakes! Oh and the ice cream, now that is your favorite food for sure!
We started off the day by having a pizza party with all your aunts, uncles, grandparents and cousins. Pizza is one of your favorite foods. After we ate we all watched a video Dad and I put together of pictures from the last couple years of your life. One thing that makes me sad is that we only have one picture of you when you were a baby and I'm guessing your we around a year old. I would give any thing to track down more pictures of your childhood, but I don't know where to start. We asked the children's home and they didn't have any.
Kaelyn had a good time playing with the bean bag toss toys. You all looked so cute in your Russian doll dresses that Grandma Ruth and I made you for Christmas.
Our family friend gave you a beautiful Russian faberge egg. You love it, it will be a treasure to help remind you of your heritage.
And it also doubles as glasses?
After the family party we gathered all your girl friends for the main event. They all came to play, get dolled up and spoil you with wonderful gifts.
Daddy and I made this life sized Matroyshka doll that doubled as a bean bag toss and photo booth for the party.
We were so happy that Jaymi's two Russian friends, both adopted like her were able to make it to the party.
As you can see Kaelyn was less than thrilled to be in this picture.
Some of the cute little girls from our neighborhood gave the party guests make-overs and manicures.
It was even a nice enough day outside that we could use the little playground.
Getting her nails painted is one of Jaymi's favorite things to do. She had been talking about this all week.
Jaymi loved all the attention and chance to finally open her own presents after attending a few birthday parties since she has been home.
The little Russian's and their new Matroyshka dolls.
