Happy Birthddy, Seth!!!

Caramel Chocolate Wow cake!!!

My most favorite middle child is a 9-year-old!!!

I can still remember 9 years ago on this day, getting out of bed at 2:30am and jumping in the shower... and how your daddy thought I was just a crazy pregnant girl :). By the time we left for the hospital, I was all clean (with nicely curled hair and just a touch of make-up so not to get lipstick on you when you came out!). You were born on a Sunday morning, about 6 am. You did make Daddy late for 1st service, but not too late to teach Sunday School and attend 2nd service! How considerate! A-ma was with us when you come out. A-gon stayed home to watch Isaac. I think Daddy took my camera to church to show you off to Grandpa and Grandma and the rest of our family and church family! When Daddy brought Isaac and A-gon to see you, Isaac was so sweet and gentle with you. He was such a proud big brother... welcoming his little baby brother with all sorts of soft little kisses on your head! It still makes my eyes well up remembering how my boys met :). When Daddy came back from church, he brought a little red rose from the top of the piano... I think Mr. Gronewold clipped it for you to show our church family that a new baby was born. We used to do that at our church. I'm not sure why we don't any more.

Mrs. Steiger's special birthday pencil jar :)

Grandma's getting some "sugar"!

Well, my sweet Sethy, you are not 7 pounds and 21 inches anymore. I am so grateful to be your mama... even if you tell me that I have bigger thighs than your dad :). I love that you always want hugs (and tells me that "Hugs are what keeps you alive!"), even when you are at school. You make me laugh with all your little antics and sayings. Even yesterday when we were enjoying your birthday lunch of Western Bacon Cheese Burger without barbecue sauce, you told me that Amanda (the girl that you sit next to) is the one with the bananna colored hair :D. How descriptive!!! I don't think I've ever thought of anyone with bananna colored hair! I love your goofy sense of humor and how you and your brother so enjoy each other's company. You two are the perfect roommates. I am thankful that God has given you a spirit that desires the best for others. It makes my heart glad when you genuinely celebrate with Isaac or Abby when they have a victory or do well in something. I am thankful for your tender heart that desires to pray for those who do not know Jesus yet. I love that you are so kind and patient with your little cousins. I think you will be a great daddy one day!

Trying out the new Ripstick

New pet... Jerry Sea Swisher

This last year was an import one for you, you were given permission to take Communion for the first time in December, and the three fold communion just a couple of weeks ago. Daddy and Mommy are glad to give you this privilege because that you have shown a clear understanding of your sin, of repentance, and of the Cross. I'm grateful that God is working and will continue to finish the work He has begun in your life!

Happy birthday my Monkey Boy! I thank God for loaning you to our family. I pray that Mommy and Daddy will stand before God one day and hear "Well done, good and faithful servants. You have been wise and diligent in guarding over My precious treasures in Isaac, Seth, and Abigail..." We desire to teach you and ground you in the Word of God. I am thankful that we see a desire in you to know Jesus more and to follow Him. I love you, buddy! May God continue to grow you into a God-fearing young man!