The Baby

(full of energy, athletic, busy, loving, smiley, affectionate)

Our little miracle.... Drake, you are not old enough to understand right now just how special you are, but one day your Dad and I will share with you the amazing story of how you got here. If we did not have the medical technology that we have today it would have not been possible. I told your Daddy when I was pregnant with you that something felt different than when I was pregnant with your sisters... I told him that you might be a BOY! On January 17, 2007 we were given the news that indeed you would be a boy and that's when the planning began. Within a few short months you were born and the blessings began to pour out for your dad and me. From the first smile to the everyday kisses we are blessed by you. I know that you say my name at least a hundred times a day, but I never get tired of it. Thank you for my time at night when you want to cuddle with just me... I tell your Daddy that I am in "My Happy Place!" and that is what it is... my little happy place with you in my lap snug under my chin and tucked in my right arm just like I like it. We are very proud of you and look forward to watching you grow and we thank our Lord Jesus Christ for blessing us with such a special little boy. We love you Drake Michael Lee.

The Middle

(sweet-sweet, air-headed, sneaky, affectionate, smart, artistic, brilliant, lovable)

The One who is forced to be in the middle.... Joy, your name fits you perfectly! You are truly a joy to your family and anyone you meet. The Webster dictionary describes the word joy as a very glad feeling, happiness, great pleasure, and delight... you are all of these. Your smile is contagious. Thinking back on you as a child makes me giggle inside. You were so chubby as a baby, but it only meant that we have lots more to love. Everyone loves a chubby baby! You always wanted to be with me no matter where I was, even if I was in the bathroom you had to be there. You would ask at least a million questions a day and sometimes it was about the darnedest things, but that is why we love you. We love you because you are so carefree and so genuine that you don't let the things of the world slow you down. You always put yourself last and you care about other people's feelings. That makes me very proud. You have blossomed into such a beautiful young lady. I am proud of Joy not only for your academics, but for putting God first in your life. When you have troubles in your life always look to the Bible for answers. The Bible is given to us a guide to our daily living. Always keep your eyes on Jesus. Thank you for loving me the way you do. Thank you for giving everything your best and trying new things. I am so proud of you Joy. You have far exceeded all my expectations and you keep achieving new heights every year. I love you, Joy Meredith Alford.

The Oldest

(outgoing, lively, spontaneous, pint-sized, energetic, sincere, has to have the last word!)

Where to begin about this beautiful daughter... Ashton, I loved you before I ever laid eyes on you. You came as a surprise, but I knew it was no surprise to God. He knew that I needed someone to love me unconditionally. I remember like it was yesterday the first time I heard you say "Mommy." It was like music to my ears!! Watching you grow has been a gift from God. You always give everything your all and you never settle for second. You put God first in your life and that is the way it should be. I love you for taking the time you do everyday to send me a text message (that's what teenagers do these days!) I thank you for every "I love you" and for being a positive source for your sisters and brother. Now that you are a senior, you have lots of decisions ahead of you. Always remember to keep God first in your life and in all your decision making. He will never lead you astray. Words cannot express just how proud you make me and your family. Always remember to keep your chin up when life's trials come and go. I love you Ashton, my first born!!!