Red Letter Day

Today, January 20, 2009, is a red letter day in history!

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Oh, wait, did you think I was referring to the presidential inauguration? Goodness, no! Those happen every 4 years, nothing special about that. I'm talking about my niece Callie's 2nd birthday!
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Just 19 weeks ago it was uncertain whether Callie would survive another hour, let alone be with us to celebrate her next birthday. By the great goodness of God she is 2 years old today, and it was with great joy that we gathered to celebrate last night.

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This 22-second video was taken just after the crowd sang "Happy birthday, dear Callie..." I love how her expression changes as she realizes she is the one everyone is singing to!

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The sentiment painted on the wall above Dana's and Callie's heads kind of says it all, doesn't it?

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The near-tragedy of Callie's accident brought that message home to all of us, and we've witnessed the best in so many loving and giving people during the past few months.

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Callie had fun checking out her gifts even though she was getting sleepy by that time.

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I don't think she even realized at this point that all this fuss was for her, the guest of honor!

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Callie especially loved cuddling her new little doll.

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And what could be better than sharing cake and ice cream with Daddy?

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(For dinner, Dana served Callie's favorite foods: corn dogs, tater tots, pink jello, and fruit drinks. I thought that was so sweet!)

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It was a wonderful, emotional evening, and we owe it all to our sweet Callie Jayne, the miracle girl!

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Happy birthday, dear Callie. May God bless you with many, many, many more to come and with as much joy in your life as you bring to those who love you!