Happy 9th Birthday, Th!

My life forever changed the day you were born. I had no idea how being a mom could teach me so much about the character of God: I have a better understanding of God's love for me because of the love I feel towards you; I also better understand God's ability to forgive because I've been both the offended and the offender. I am better able to serve others because of the many ways I watch you serve: each week you look forward to going to the pregnancy center to gather up the garbage and take it to the curb. It's a job that seems so menial yet blesses so many people who work at and visit the center. It is an important job that must be done in order for the pregnancy center to function on its core task: to save the lives of unborn babies. You do your work purposefully and to the best of your ability, and you don't mind that you don't get recognition for it. It is a reality check for me as a mother because so often what I do goes unnoticed yet is so crucial to the functioning of our family. Thank you for the reminder that we are serving the Lord in those tasks and He sees all that is done!

You enjoy a variety of activities including football, baseball, and soccer. I love that you are willing to try new things despite how intimidating they might seem. I also love that you are determined to finish something you start, whether you enjoy it or not. You are not a quitter, and I take pleasure in sharing in the sense of accomplishment you feel when you have completed a task you don't really care to do (particularly cleaning the toilets!).

You enjoy critters of any type, especially insects and reptiles. I have enjoyed being your science teacher the past year and few months because I have been able to witness first-hand your ability to seek, find, and care for those critters. Even though I personally don't like them, you are able to share with me God's purpose in creating them.

But, mainly this year you have shown me how much you care about others, especially your siblings. I think this picture says it all- just look at their faces! You had just finished putting on a show for them and they were so excited to be in a picture with the "star" of the show! Your kind and compassionate personality shines through in all you do, and my prayer for you this next year is to continue to love God by loving others.

Happy 9th birthday!!

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