January 26th, 2017

Ladies and gentlemen, we have an EIGHT YEAR OLD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

It amazes me how quickly he went from this…

to THIS!    ***Blink***

Since the Christmas/winter break fell over E’s birthday, we started the celebrations early. He made a list of eight people he wanted to join him at an indoor play area after school on December 16th. He included a few friends from school, a couple from our village, his first grade teacher (from last year) and our neighbors. I loved the variety! E also asked for a pirate ship cake from Mama’s Bakery (a.k.a. my kitchen). Pinterest came in handy as I attempted this new feat. Well, Pinterest and A LOT of frosting!

 

When we arrived at the play gym, table 9 was set up for us with a placard and some basic decorations. We were pleasantly surprised with the affordability of this German venue and the ease of throwing a party there. We were not obligated to use their concessions but instead brought all of our own food, treats and decorations. E also got a birthday token to use in their “store” to pick out a Birthday treat. I’m grateful for fun, indoor options for our December baby!

 

 

 

Our sweet neighbors…

E’s INCREDIBLE first grade teacher whom he adores. She was so kind to come and stay for the party!

What a gift it was to celebrate our lil man-in-the-making with a wonderful group of people!

When E’s actual Birthday rolled around, he was too excited to let us sleep in though we insisted he let his brother keep sleeping! It was sweet watching him open his gifts from family near and far. Thanks to all of you who sent something in the mail…not necessary but appreciated and enjoyed!

 

 

 

A little later in the day, when daylight was actually shining through the windows, we took the boys outside to surprise them with a basketball hoop and a second ball for lil S to play along with.

 

We celebrated as a family with another, simpler cake from Mama’s Bakery.

In the next week, more packages arrived in the mail (from his Aunt MaryBeth who never forgets, E’s Madrina Peggy and the boys’ Grammy Julie) which lovingly extended the celebration. Again, THANK YOU all!!

I captured these moments when Grammy’s package was opened…

 

 

They loved playing with the fun packaging. Even Adi got into it!

Eight is my favorite number; has been for years. Now, we have an eight year old in our house and I still can’t believe it. This boy continues to keep me on my toes while holding my heart-strings around his growing fingers. I will forever be grateful for the incredible way his story intersected with mine and continually reveals the graciousness and power of our God. Please pray for E as he navigates the waters of childhood cross-culturally and for Mein Mann and I as we seek wisdom in parenting our lil spitfire. When I look at our E, I still get glimpses of that baby that was entrusted to us eight years ago. I’m also reminded that he belongs to God. Oh, how we love him!

Happy Birthday E!