A Russian Princess

Ten years ago today, in Russia, there was a baby girl who was born. Her mother named her Ekaterina.

Half a world away, in the United States, lived a family of three. Two loving, dedicated parents and one son, born into the family through adoption. The couple was thrilled to have their son join their lives in 1994. He made their home even homier. Yet something was calling to the couple from afar - and as time went on they knew that somewhere out there was a little girl who belonged with them.

So the couple visited a Russian orphanage. They saw different babies - but one knit her way into her future Daddy's heart the very first time he held her. It was in those moments that little Ekaterina joined our family, although it would be a couple of months before she was able to come home.

The couple I speak of are my beloved sister and her husband - and the son they adopted is my dear nephew, now fourteen years of age. He is the same age as Pickles and it's been a joy to watch him grow up. He has the most beautiful blue eyes you have ever seen and is probably going to be even taller than his adoptive Daddy.

The sweet little Russian Princess was dubbed "Katy" by her late Grandmother - although her parents did formally change her name. We all call her by the nickname "Katya" that was given to her in the orphanage by her caregivers. Today is Katya's tenth birthday - or "double digits" as she has enjoyed saying.

Katya, I am so thankful that God wanted to have you join our family. Writing this has brought tears to my eyes. I remember when your Mama sent me the first pictures of you when you were still in the orphanage. I loved you before I had ever even met you!

Happy Birthday darling Katya. I hope your day is as special as you are!!