The Big 8

The birthday boy picked out his hunting themed cake!

We are blessed to have children who genuinely loved each other.

Jack and one of his dear friends T who will be 9 this year. Our other sweet friend Z just turned 9 two days ago and Fri. night was his party. Jack was up until almost 10 last night and then of course up at the crack of dawn this morning in anticipation of his FastLane party today. Our VERY generous Aunt LaLa surprised him with an offer to have his party there. Wow! They did an amazing job and the kids (and adults) had a blast. They bowled, played laser tag, had pizza, and then rode go-karts. What more could a group of boys ask for?

So, 8 years ago today, Jeff and I headed in to the old Washington Regional hospital, with great hopes of meeting our baby boy that night. Well, first baby decided to stay put for a bit and didn't arrive until 3:30 AM! We were exhausted, but he was well worth the wait! As I think back to the first morning, I remember telling my mom and dad that I was so sorry for every bad thing I had ever done to worry them! This had come to mind as the enormity of what it meant to be a parent washed over my tired heart and mind. Could we really do this? Were these crazy people really going to let us take this tiny human being home? No one stopped us and after our hospital stay, we headed back to our tiny duplex that we were renting at the time. I was still in grad school and this had been one of the only places that we could find that would allow dogs. 2 bedrooms, 1 small bath, and a tiny kitchen. But it was home and we were a family. God had chosen us to be your parents. The years have truly flown by - though more so as we added more siblings! You were a healthy baby who didn't care much for sleep. As a toddler I thought you were willful, only to throw that completely out the window when your little brother Will came along (that boy was so aptly named it is unbelievable!) Jack, you are tender and sensitive. You are smart, but school has taken a toll on your spirit. We are hopeful that the changes that we are going to make in your education will reignite your enjoyment of learning and remind you that "school" is fun! You love to be out in the woods, especially now that you have your BB gun and pocket knife. You are super creative, making books and cool ships out of your legos. You love Jesus and it is truly humbling to see the Lord at work in your life. Just when I think that you haven't been listening to a word that I've read during our daily bible time, out pops this thoughtful and intelligent comment or question. Your dad and I are so proud of you - and we can't wait to see what this year holds in store for you! Happy 8th Birthday Jack!