Sara

Sara Elizabeth Luebben Smith came into my life for the first time on July 4, 1987.  Her mom (Sally) flew out to visit me after a few months of writing and phone calls in May of 1987; and well, things went rather well, so we both knew that it was critical that Sara and I meet, to see if this might be the future that the Lord had in mind for us.  So in July I flew back to Chicago, where Sally came to pick me up, and Sara and I got to know each other for the 1^st time.  She was not quite 5, and I don’t know how much she might even remember this visit; but Sally and I sure do. 

Sara seemed to take to me right away, and she was so adorable and joyful, there was no question that I could love her as my own if the Lord willed.   And guess what – the Lord did will.  I proposed to Sally, and also Sara for all practical purposes, long distance, with a large sign in their front lawn on September 9, 1987. 

I was not able to experience Sara’s birth and earliest years, but was able to help her learn how to ride a bike, dance on the fold-out couch together to the Nutcracker Suite, camping, exploring the beautiful northwest and country together.  I missed the diapers and sleepless nights with Sara, but was there for almost all of her milestone life events; not such a bad trade off all in all.  One of the very special highlights of my life was when Sara agreed for me to adopt her, at age 6.  Some of the most difficult years were seeing you face such hard times in your late teens, and not being able to protect you like a father should, or so longs to.  But you have grown into such a beautiful and wonderful lady, wife, and mother.  God has blessed you with four living children, one in heaven, and one on the way!  Wow, hard to imagine that that 4 year old girl I would meet on the 4^th of July would be turning 30 and carving out such a wonderful life.  

I love you Sara, you are my first child, my first daughter, and mother of my first five grandchildren (Ethan being with our Lord). Mom and I are so grateful that you maintain a faith in our Lord; and hope and pray that you and TJ will grow in the Lord, and help your children grow in the Lord as you enter your 30’s.  Just think, in the next 10 years Auston will be 21, MaKenzie 19, Tray 17, Brenna 15, and your newest child 9.  The Lord has placed them under your care, what a blessing and responsibility. Trust and lean on Him, and make sure you expose your children, our grandchildren to Him as often as you can, and trust Him with their lives, as we have trusted our precious Savior with yours, and been so very blessed.