3 & 6

Two birthdays that I didn't get time to blog about.  But one month later...better late than never I guess.

We were traveling this year to Seattle over these two beautiful babes birthdays....so since they are a little too young to notice we celebrated on different days.

Addie Rose got her very one tea party birthday party.  Dressing up was required.  She invited four of her friends (two that are moving away to Dubuque).  Daddy and Jackson dressed up and served them.  So cute and she was in her element.  So adorable to watch her this day.  Full of joy is an understatement.  She was overflowing.

At three years old Addie Rose is a strong-willed yet sensitive and sweet little miss. She is still attached to her teddy, she is a lover....constantly wanting to be with mommy or daddy.  Addie is learning her letters and she is loving preschool.  She likes Frozen and she LOVES Ariel.  These are her favorites.  She is silly and likes to color, draw, read books and do puzzles.  She takes some time to warm up to people.  Usually she wants to stay close to mom and dad until she is comfortable with someone new.  But if they are patient she grabs on.  It usually takes her an hour or so to open up or feel content with new people.  Her smile melts me.  Always.  Her blue eyes captivate me.  Her name means, "noble" and I truly believe that is what she is.  There is a depth in her that doesn't immediately come out...but it is there.  Once you get past the surface with this girl she draws you in and your heart will never be the same.

Jackson on the other hand has been very into golf this year so he got to have a little putt putt party upon our return.  Chasing ten little kids around a mini-golf course proved a bit challenging but we had fun nonetheless.  Thankful there weren't a ton of people there!  He had a total blast as usual and we were thankful to see so many of his friends be a part of lives with their extended families.  

Jackson you are a gem.  At six year old you continue to carry with you a charisma that is such a blessing.  Your name means, "God has been gracious..." and He has with you.  You are patient, faithful (your heart is full for the Lord and you trust in Him in ways that teach us), you are spirited and energetic, enthusiastic bout all things.  You greet each new person with kindness and excitement.  You laugh often and love much.  You love everything from figure heroes to legos to your gator (which you are obsessed with this summer) to your bike to your scooter to golf.  You've really gotten attached to golfing this past summer and love to hit around.  You've been to the driving range a lot with dad.  But pretty much any new adventure in life gives you joy and you give it to all you meet.  

We love you both.  Happy (belated) 3rd & 6th birthday my kiddos.  Time is racing by me.  Tonight I was giving you a bath and Jackson got out of the tub early.  I caught him in the mirror and I saw the last six years just fade by...how is this possible?  Where has it gone?  How can I capture it and contain it?  

Alas I know I can't...but I'll hold you both as long as you let me.  I'll snuggle your necks as long as you fit (and Addie you just fit perfectly right now-especially every night you crawl into my bed about 3am)...and I'll allow my heart to grasp the wonder and blessing of getting to care for you on this earth.  Praise you Lord....I could never have predicted how incredible being a mother really is...even in the hard moments.  The good far outweighs the bad.  I love you Jackson and Addie Rose.  Happy Birthdays!!!