A Note From Mom: Ruby is NINE!!

 Oh, little Rubes McGubes... you are my precious little jewel. God radiates through you in so many ways and I love getting to witness him working through you. Though at times you look like a creative tornado tearing through the house, your presence is also so very healing. It always has been. God has used you many, many times to be his arms and hands... arms that wrap people up and make them feel so very loved and hands that are always ready to serve in any way needed.

I pray that God continues to mold you and refine you into his chosen instrument. I pray that your ear is finely tuned and disciplined to hear his gentle whisper and that your love for him and others provides great beauty throughout your life.

Happy Birthday, Ruby! I love you, little Babe. 💛

 

A Note From Mom: THIRTEEN YEARS of ELLY

Thinking through the last thirteen years with you, Babe, just makes me really happy. 

You were the cutest little naughty baby... with your round little body and your twinkly blue eyes that always clued me in to the mischief you were up to. You still have that twinkle. I can always tell when you're up to something, but it's more than mischief these days. Your eyes seem to twinkle most when you're at your happiest... working hard on a project, playing with babies or puppies, any time you get an opportunity to play basketball. I love seeing God's light shimmer through you.

I pray that this next year offers you so many opportunities to deepen your trust in your Father, your Savior, your Friend. I pray that you grow bolder and more courageous in your faith and that the seeds of truth that have taken root in your heart begin to sprout and bloom into a beautiful harvest.

I love you, Babe! Happy 13th Birthday!!

A Note From Mom: Judah is ELEVEN

 Buddy, you're so very special to me. I hope you always know that and believe it. You are a gift to me that is undeserved and I treasure everything about you.

I pray that through this next year, God will mold and refine your strength and your courage. You have a heart for truth and justice and I know that God will be faithful in surrounding you as you grow and mature. He will arm you, protect you and guard you. He will shelter you and fight for you. I pray that through it all, your trust in God deepens and tethers you to his heart.

Happy Birthday, Buddy! I love you so, SO much.

A Note From Mom: Lucy is FOURTEEN!!!!

 Babe, you are growing and maturing into the most beautiful little woman. My first little woman... my first little BFF. I'm overwhelmed thinking of the incredible gift you are to me. I pray this next year draws you closer to God in ways that you can't even fathom right now. I pray that you continue to grow in wisdom and discernment; that God grants you understanding and clarity in big things and in small things. I pray that you wholly put your trust in Him, and that you bask in the depths of His love for you.

Happy Birthday, little Lucy! I love you more than you love crab rangoon.