More Than Just Another Birthday

Hello Friend,

It was more than just another birthday.

We hit another milestone here at Reina’s Hope. A couple of weeks ago, we celebrated the birthdays of two of our girls who happened to be born on the same day, one year apart. This was our first opportunity to celebrate their special day. Flori turned 17, and Miriam celebrated her 18th.

There was quite a bit of excitement leading up to their big day. Celeste gave them a budget and took them both out shopping for some new clothes during the previous week. They both got to pick out the kind of cake they wanted. Of course, we couldn't possibly consider sharing one cake (what was I thinking?!).

On the big day, there were balloons, streamers, and confetti bombs, and we celebrated with their tutor, Jessica, her sister, Estefania (our Program Director), and all of us together for a special dinner event. During dinner, we all went around the table and spoke blessings and words of appreciation to each of them, and then they each took a turn to respond and express their appreciation. Miriam went first and nearly brought us to tears when she said that this was the best birthday that she has ever had because it was the first one she celebrated with her family. I was not the only one holding back the tears.

But then, just when we thought we had heard it all, it was Flori's turn. She was sitting next to her presents, in front of her favorite meal, with her chosen cake waiting to be enjoyed. But what did she tell us she was grateful for? She was celebrating her 17th birthday and said, "This is the first birthday party I've ever had."

Your continued support of our work at Reina's Hope makes it possible to make these girls' dreams come true—along with some things they never dared to dream of. Thank you for being with us and making it possible to restore hope, nurture dreams, and give these girls a chance at the life God has desired for them.