Birthdays in pictures

Sweet, sweet kids that they are (especially Kathryn, who just turned seven and therefore knew what she was missing), the birthday kids this week graciously accepted a VERY toned down birthday celebration, understanding that Mommy couldn't do much this year, and the big "present" for us all was the birth of Grace.

Still, I want to honor them and tell the world how much I love them!

Monday was Kathryn's birthday and, as I mentioned, she turned seven. Unbelievably understanding and generous, she did not complain ONCE about not having a party that she could invite her friends to. This is all the more amazing when I tell you that she and her big sister have been designing birthday invitations for MONTHS beforehand. (You better believe I'm going to try to do something special and wonderful for her when I am fully recovered!)

I love you, sweetheart, and I am so proud of you!




The next day (Tuesday) brought us Thomas' birthday! I can't believe he's FOUR already. Where did the time go? Just yesterday, it seems, I was bringing him home from the hospital and now here he is, all "grown up" and being a fantastic big brother to his two younger sisters. I'm just so thankful he's not "too big" for a late night snuggle -- that's when he curls up next to me, puts his hands on my cheeks, gives me a sweet little kiss, and whispers:

"I don't ever want to be wifout you, Mommy."

I don't ever want to be without you either, baby. You are one of the more "strong willed" children we have, but you make every day fun!




And finally, yesterday (Saturday) brought us Marie's second birthday. By the time her turn rolled around, she knew exactly what to do with those birthday candles! (yeah, I know it LOOKS like three candles, but it's actually two sparklers and then a bonus singing candle... it doesn't actually count)

This whole new baby thing has obviously hit Marie the hardest. She has been my baby for two years, and now having to give up that position is a bit unsettling... but I will say that she's handled it like a trouper. *I* miss holding her and rocking her, and I look forward to the day when I can swoop her up in my arms again and give her all the attention she deserves. Until then, I can only pray that the little things I am able to do still speak to her and let her know how deeply loved she is.

So here's to you, sweetheart. You are funny, full of life, stubborn (too true), amazingly perceptive of other people's feelings, a great cleaner (she's been taking her dishes to the dishwasher since she could walk!), and a total joy. You rock!