Oh Ben!

Tomorrow Ben turns 15 months old. That's so hard to believe! The first year after Grace was born went by quickly, but Ben's first year has simply flown by. He is such a funny little guy. One minute he's sweet and loving...giving hugs and lots of kisses. The next minute, he's down on the floor wrestling with Grace, trying to get one of us to chase him, or climbing on everything! He's such a boy! And I love every bit of him. He is currently cutting at least six teeth that I can tell. And he's being such a trooper! He's hardly fussing at all. He just wants to be held all the time. And that's okay with me. Benjamin just has the sweetest temperment...from the very beginning that was evident. We had some bumps in the road...like at five days old having to be readmitted into the hospital to be put under the bili-lights...or troubles with nursing and supply (which were overcome, thankfully!)...or other common baby "problems". But thankfully, they were all minor and quickly overcome. We have been so blessed. I have been so blessed. I have two gorgeous children that I am able to stay home with everyday! How great is that?!?! I have a wonderful husband who supports me in almost everything! He's always there to encourage and love me. I am just so thankful, Lord.

I want my children to know that no matter what...I love you! We are going to have our problems...we won't agree on everything. I will say no when you want me to say yes. I will discipline you even though you beg me not to. It won't be always perfect, our relationship. We will certainly have our shares of ups and downs. BUT...know this...no matter what...I am your mother and I will do ANYTHING I can to be here for you. I will listen no matter what the topic...small or large. I will encourage you because I know you are capable to do WHATEVER you put your mind to! I will hold you and wipe your tears away when your heart has been broken by people who dont' cherish it as I do. I will fight for you and what I believe is best for you even when I am being pressured to go another way. I will always do my best to reflect Jesus for you. I will teach you to pray. I will do all I can for you, but I will still fail you at times...but I will teach you that Christ is there NO MATTER WHAT...and He will NEVER fail you. That is the most important job I have as your mom. If I fail to lead you to him, then I fail as a parent. And that is simply not an option. Please know that your father and I are always in your corner. We love you, Ben and Gracie! To the moon and back!

Can you believe in 15 short months, Ben has gone from this...

To this:

And here is how Grace has changed in the same time period:

It's amazing isn't it?

Thank you for indulging me in this "reminiscent and introspective" mood I am in tonight.