HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Two years apart on April 1st I became a mother for the first, and then a second time. Henry in 2008 and Samuel in 2010. What precious gifts these boys are -- souls, created by God, entrusted to our care. Cute little packages that don't include "often painful sanctify-ers" in their description.

Henry is born!

My little (not so little?) Sam-moo!

Yet, until they begin to grow in your womb and then you hold them in your arms, the love for these tiny ones reaches a part of your heart you never knew existed. Already this part of my heart has ached, bled, and taken joy that I could have never imagined. How I rejoice in my calling as a mother, especially to Henry and Samuel. Why has the Lord been so good to me to bless me with THESE two?

. . .Oy vey. So sentimental. Really, this post is supposed to be about April 1st, 2011 when we celebrated their 3rd(!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!) and 1st (!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!ahhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!!!) Birthdays :)

On April 1st Cory, the boys and I spent the morning at the Children's Museum in the Museum of Civilization. Henry, and even Samuel, really got into it. Riding Camels, climbing into and on top of every kind of motor vehicle. Visiting homes and markets representing cultures around the world. Even painting and dress up.




We had a blast! Next we went to McDonalds for a special Birthday treat. Later Grandma and Grandpa joined us for a few Birthday gifts and food.

On April 2nd we had the *big* family party (Grandpa and Grandma, Uncle Jon and Auntie Dee, Uncle Jeremie and Auntie Jenny, Pake and Oma, Uncle Dave and Auntie Kate with Matthew and Levi, Tante Katrina, Tante Emma, Omke Emke, and even Auntie Katie R. stopped by but couldn't stay!). I had my Mom helping me with Chile, we had garlic bread and a very yummy salad. We served banana cake cupcakes with cream cheese frosting for dessert. The boys were very loved (spoiled?) with gifts and attention.



Henry had an especially fun time this year. He REALLY understood the whole Birthday concept. He enjoyed every moment but by the end of the second evening he was a bit of a bear. We had to be extra patient, keeping the late nights, stimulation overload and sugar overload in mind.

What wonderful weekend of Birthday celebrating!