Welcome Home Nay Nay

Over this past weekend, while celebrating Easter in Faribault, we received the amazing news that our niece Naya was coming back home. For anyone that is close to this story at all, you are well aware that this family is always anticipating when we get to see our sweet Naya again. My brother-in-law Ryan, drove the long haul to Duluth, to pick Naya up and bring her home. We all anxiously awaited for her arrival. Along with the excitement, we also had some worries. We did not know how Naya would deal with so many people waiting to see her (Auntie, Uncle, Cousins, Nana, Papa, and Great grandparents). This had been the longest she had gone without seeing this family, including her Mama Jodi, Ry Ry, and brother Tanner.


As soon as that precious little girl stepped out of the car though, all our concerns melted away. Naya was bursting to see everyone. She first wrapped her arms TIGHTLY around Mama Jodi's neck, repeatedly saying, "I love you Mama Jodi." We were not sure if she was ever going to let go :) but she did. Brother Tanner was right there also, waiting to pick her up and welcome her home. Once Naya had a few minutes to reunite with them, she did not hesitate to welcome all the other hugs and kisses waiting for her.


As I held that sweet niece of mine, telling her how much I loved and missed her, she laid her head on my shoulder, and responded with "I love you too Auntie....I missed you too." She then proceeded to say hello to the rest of the family. After that, she received a much needed bath, so Mama Jodi washed her up and got her dressed. She then came out to greet us all once again, as she danced around and made everyone laugh. Bostyn and Ranger were very excited to see their cousin also. Naya gave Bostyn and Ranger lots of soft kisses, as she kept saying "Hi Baby Bostyn" and "Hi Ranger" :) We quickly realized that this little girl, no matter how long she has to be away, will ALWAYS know who we are and that we are her other home.


So needless to say, it was a great weekend. We hope everyone else had a great Easter too.