Miss Redonia Leigh Smith

August 13, 1986 marks a most memorable day for Kent and me. Exactly 22 years ago Kent and I were very distinctly changed. Seven months prior to 8-13-86 we learned the devastating news that it was medically impossible for me to give birth. Shortly after we were presented with the prospect of one of the greatest blessings, adoption. The baby was due in August, seven months later.

Redonia is not only an important part of our family, she is an important part of CUPC. She teaches at CCS, directs the children’s choir, leads several sign praise groups, is the church graphics designer, transports younger teens to eat after service, is an awesome praise singer, sings solos in the choir, loves praying with people to receive the Holy Ghost, is faithful to her college and career group and on and on and on the list continues. I can’t imagine our family or CUPC without Redonia.

Redonia is a wonderful daughter and daddy’s baby girl. She is very graceful, stunningly beautiful, and compassionate to her own hurt. She is a lover of animals, clothes, shoes, sunglasses, purses, and lip gloss. She owns a graphics and photography business. She loves God, helping those less fortunate, and serving the church. She is an avid reader and addicted to music. She enjoys her cell phone, camera, and computers. She is a connoisseur of steak, icing, pepperoni, energy drinks, gum, goldfish, and gummies. She enjoys the tanning bed and outdoors. She loves the ocean, walking, running, swimming, exercising, bungee jumping, roller coasters, snow and water skiing, and any other action she can possibly indulge. She has changed her college major ‘umpteen’ times and may finish by the time she is 100!

Redonia is our miracle. She has experienced many miracles and has struggled against many obstacles. She is an incredible lady. Her ability to multi-task amazes me. This OCD mom enjoys her daughter’s talents yet has always been driven nuts by her artsy side from scribbling on freshly painted walls, doodling on every piece of school paper, to being a messy decorating cookies and cupcakes. Her love for noise has about driven me insane. I’ve had to listen to Hank the Cowdog, Oddysey, music, cassette tapes, cd’s, talking Mother Goose, Teddy Ruxpin, ipods, you tube, goofy cell phone ringers, and even talk radio. When I think back over the past 22 years I have so many wonderful memories. I hope she knows she is loved more than I can express. Each time I hear Redonia say she WILL adopt children lets me know we have accomplished.

Happy 22nd Birthday, Redonia, I love you!!!!!