Happy Birthday, C!!

Our newly turned 11 year old in his BRAVES uniform.

We are in the midst of our busy birthday season in the B household. In 5 weeks we celebrate 5 birthdays and Mother's Day. Definitely a season of celebration :)!! C turned 11 on Saturday--I can not believe how quickly these years have flown by. I know those of you with growing families can understand this phenomena. The memories of his arrival are still so very vivid...I'll never forget the nurses giggling in surprise to see the weight on the delivery room scale peak at 9 # 14 ounces...and our 'little' fellow was almost 23" long. As we celebrate all of these milestones, I am reminded afresh of what a privilege it is to be a mom and watch the years unfold, personalities develop, and the Lord work in the lives of our children.

C is my shopping buddy and great company when I am counting coupons in the grocery store or even searching through clothes racks for a gift. I asked him yesterday why he likes to join me on evening grocery trips. He admitted the reward of a free cookie from the Shoprite bakery and the advantage of knowing all the good food in the house is a great motivator.(I guess so he can 'stake his claim'??) Wisely, he also added he likes spending time with me :)---good answer!!
C has always had a tender heart for his little brothers and often is found playing around with them during the day. He loves to accompany these little guys on doctor's visits to help distract them and he often 'rewards' their good behavior with play time on his Game Boy.
C loves sports and last year willingly sacrificed his township baseball season so that we could focus on building our newest additions into the B family. He never complained about this although I know it was something he missed. Thankfully, this year our family is spending many hours at the ball field cheering C and his teammates on. We are proud of C's self control on the field and his coach has commented on what a joy it is to have a young man like him on the team. I look forward to seeing all the Lord has in store for our #2 son!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, C~ We love you!!

Another one of Mimi's yummy creations--decorated this time in Medieval theme for L --C and P thought their little brother might enjoy that theme.

All this partying tires a guy out...Odesco crashed on the family room floor with baseball cap still in place and cap gun not far from his reach!!