Suzanne holding Naomi Lauren for the first time.

Is she not the most precious bundle of joy?  The most beautiful, petite porcelain doll?  We all sure think so.  I would like to introduce you to Naomi Lauren Matheny…my great niece.  She was born on December 22, 2015 and was 5 lbs 15 oz and 17.5 inches long.  Naomi, in Hebrew, means “pleasant, agreeable, my sweet”…and her Mama says she is all that and more.   Her middle name is for… our Lauren.  We were so humbled and honored when Elise asked us if she could give her that middle name.  We hope she has a little bit of the “spirit” of that name.  Lauren…who reached out to those who looked lonely, lost, scared or unloved.  Lauren…who was funny, laughed a lot and had a quick wit…but sometimes things came out of her mouth before she thought it through…that last part we don’t want Naomi to get…lol.  Lauren…who most things were black and white…right or wrong.  Sometimes when things were wrong she spoke her mind…she took up for the underdog…but not always in a polite way…so we hope Naomi has more finesse in speaking up for what is right.   Lauren…who wasn’t perfect…had faults…but tried to live a meaningful life of purpose. Lauren…who liked to go on mission trips and lend a helping hand.  Lauren…who’s faith was important, who loved Jesus, who accepted him as her Savior in grade school.  We know Naomi one day will as well… as she is surrounded by family and people of faith.  Lauren would have been so enamored with this tiny, beautiful baby girl…one day they will meet and I wish to see Lauren’s face light up when she sees her…hugs and kisses her…her name sake….Naomi Lauren.