Happy To You, Almanzo!

 Photo credit: Katherine Bernau Photography

Dear Almanzo,

Three years ago today, you entered our world and our lives have never been the same.  You have brought so much joy and laughter to our home.  You are non-stop energy, from sun up to sun down, constantly keeping us smiling with your silly antics and wild raucous.  Sometimes our home is like a seen from Where the Wild Things Are, but we wouldn't have it any other way.  Our home just wouldn't be complete without YOU. 

The day you were born surprised us all, because you decided to arrive almost three weeks early.  Your lungs weren't quite ready to breathe in the world, but, praise God for healing you and bringing us wonderful NICU doctors and nurses, because today you are eagerly breathing in a world of excitement and new adventures.  When you are determined to do something, you will find a way no matter what.  A bump in the road, a bend in the path, no matter what obstacle is in your way, nothing is stopping you. 

The bond you share already with your big sister is so sweet.  You drive each other crazy one minute, but the moment one of you is sad or hurt, the other one is there to calm fears and dry tears.  You hardly no what to do if your big sister isn't around, because she is your constant companion and best friend.  No matter what life brings your way, you will always have each other. 

Soon, you will become a big brother and I just know that you will be best friends too.  I imagine the two of you having all sorts of adventures together, just like your daddy and his brother.  You are already excited to meet him and talk often about how little he's going to be, but you will be most excited when he's big enough to play and interact.  He's a blessed little boy already to have such an awesome big brother to show him the world. 

Today, as we celebrate you, I want you to know that you are more loved than we can put into words.  From the day you were first formed in my womb, I began to fall hopelessly and completely in love with you.  Every smile, every giggle, every hug, every kiss makes me melt and reminds me that you are a precious and perfect gift from above.  My prayer for you is that you would know the grace and mercy of the God who made you and that your constant desire would be to serve Him and to become a man after God's own heart.  I am blessed to be your mommy and look forward to watching you grow...but please don't feel rushed, because we want to soak up and enjoy every moment with you. 

Forever & Always,
Your Mommy