Happy Gilmore

Levi's daddy loves to play golf, and the two of them have been working to perfect Levi's swing. Golf, though, can be a frustrating sport. Adam has seen more than one grown man cast down his clubs and throw a tantrum on the fairway...just like a two year old. Watch as our peewee PGA champion forgets his own golf etiquette. :)
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For keeps...forever, and ever, and ever!

Well as they say, it's a done deal! At last! We finalized Levi's adoption on Friday, September 16, 2011! Here we are holding the final adoption decree which states Levi Thomas Parang Williams is our son forever, and ever, and ever....

So after completing mounds and mounds (see picture above) of legal papers, background checks, and home studies we are finished! And you know what? IT WAS ALL WORTH IT! Levi is worth it!

In fact, I would do it again. In fact, we just may do it again....so stay tuned!

Our judge was wonderful, and the adoption ceremony was so touching. Here is a sample of the questions Adam and I had to answer:

Do you consider your marriage stable? Yes

Do you understand your responsibilties as parents? I think so...

Do you vow to meet Levi's needs? Absolutely

Do you promise to love and cherish your son? Done!

I couldn't help but think every parent should be required to make such vows before embarking on the most important job of their life. Today, I'm thankful for my son and for my family and friends that have prayed, supported, and loved us through this journey!

First Day of School

They grow up fast, don't they? Last Tuesday was Levi's first day of Mother's Day Out, and I don't know who cried more when I left the classroom, Levi or me! The teacher said he was "inconsolable" the first hour which made my heart break all over again for him. But, when I came back two hours later, I peered in the same classroom and saw my son laughing, dancing, and babbling like the social butterfly that he is. They do, indeed, grow up too fast. SO fast I'm afraid next he'll be drinking Dr Pepper and asking for the car keys. Wait a minute....!

Levi say "Cheeezzz"

Levi is our first child, and as you know, first children are no stranger to the camera. It's so bad that even if a complete stranger pulls out her cell phone, Levi poses and says, "Cheeezzz"!

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I, on the other hand, was a second child, and my baby book consists of a picture of my birth followed by my college graduation! LOL!

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I signed up for a promotion at a local photo studio that allows me FREE photo shoots for one year with one FREE 8X10 picture each time. But of course, I love all the pictures of my little sweetheart so I end up with a lot more than one 8X10. Adam laughs and jokes that every "FREE" 8X10 costs us a fortune! But, someday we will be thankful that we've documented our first year home with our son, even if he is a camera hog! :)

Let your light shine!

Today was Levi's baby dedication at church. It's really more of a parent and grandparent dedication as we commit to God to raise our child according to His word and His ways. Unfortunately, Levi cried through the entire ceremony because he wanted his Grandpa Tom (whom he loves!) to hold him. The congregation got a good laugh, and now we have a funny story to tell Levi when he is older. :)
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We named Levi after the Levites in the Old Testament who were set apart for the Lord's work. I know I'm just a proud mama, but I already feel that our son is living up to his namesake. It seems everywhere we go, Levi lights up the room! He has an infectious smile and sweet spirit that attracts people, and I believe it is the presence of the Holy Spirit living in him. Jesus said, "You are the light of the world....Let your light shine before men so they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven." Matthew 5:14, 16
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Yes, my son, you have been set apart for something great in the Kingdom of God, and I can't wait to see your life unfold. Go and let that light shine!





On a side note: There is nothing worse than showing up to your baby dedication wearing the same outfit as another child. How embarrassing! :)

Say "Aahhh"

Levi and I make a great pair... I had oral surgery last week, and he is cutting two huge molars so we are both in PAIN! I sit on the couch with an ice pack on my cheek while he gums his teething ring or popsicle. Aren't we a sight to see? LOL! Perhaps this is the Lord's way of teaching us both a little empathy. :)

Korea's Got Talent

My friend sent this You Tube link to me, and it really inspired me! Maybe because I've always enjoyed rooting for the underdog or maybe because our adoption of Levi has created a special place in my heart for the country of South Korea and its people. Either way, this young man has a beautiful voice, a true gift from God. Enjoy!