One Thousand+ Gifts: July 2013

I'm still trying to grasp the fact that my baby is 1 even though his birthday and party have come and gone! Still (and will forever be) celebrating his precious little self.

I had SO much fun planning a very special morning for my little guy. I know he won't remember anything, but he will have these pictures to look at and I hope that every little detail spells love to him.

Thank you to our dear friends and family who celebrated Levi with us! We love you!

An in-flight breakfast was served.

The menu:

-blueberry muffins

-fruit

-apple cinnamon oatmeal pancakes

-buttermilk pancakes

-chocolate chip pancakes

-breakfast casserole cupcakes

-hot drinks

-milk

Bib and airplane shirt made by Tuckeroo's

If you look closely in the top right you can see the airplane flying by! The kids loved these! (Thank you Pappy!)

Happiest birthday sweet boy!!

Party favors - I forgot to take a picture when the basket was full!

Vanilla Buttermilk Cake and Chocolate Butter Cake recipes...moist and delicious!

Our precious Levi,

One year ago we met you face-to-face for the very first time. An entire year…how is that possible!? From that point on we have spent each day marveling at you and thanking God for entrusting you to us. You are a masterpiece and “I sing for joy at the works of His hands” (Psalm 92:4).

As you grow I love discovering how God created YOU…the only YOU in the entire world! What elicits those contagious belly-laughs and melt-your-Mama-smiles? What concerns you or makes you hesitate? Are you animated, easy-going, observant, or spunky? Are you silly or more reserved? This year we’ve learned the answers to those questions, but the answers will change with the passing months. Embracing who you are in this very moment is what I love most about each and every day. The way God created you is simply breath-taking, inside and out.

I love you, all of you, my charming son. I love your captivating crystal-blue eyes that twinkle with each smile. I see both of your grandfathers in your eyes especially because Mommy and Daddy don’t have a hint of blue in our eyes! Your silky blonde hair frames your handsome, tan face perfectly. Your cheeks beckon to be kissed and I love the way my kisses sink into them. I love when your strong, boy hands grasp my finger. I love the wonder you have as you patiently observe the world around you. Then I love watching you try and figure out how something works. I love how you approach situations cautiously but gain confidence quickly. I love the fact that you relax quietly in the car, the stroller, or Ergo. You don’t have to be constantly entertained to enjoy life and I love that quality about you. Our fast-paced, entertainment-driven world has much to learn from your constant contentment. I prayed that you would be a cuddly baby and God certainly answered that prayer! You always melt into my arms before bedtime and throughout the day you crawl into my lap and lay your head on my shoulder whenever you need a hug. I love how special you make Addison feel. She loves you and knows that you feel the same way about her. She can make you laugh more than anyone and she is rightfully proud when she teaches you something new! I love watching you read books – one of your favorite things to do. You amaze me with your intelligence. I love the fact that you are very social and wave and smile at everyone, but you are certain everyone still knows that I am your first choice. Thank you for loving me back in such an obvious way. I love cooking for you and watching you enjoy every thing I make (in less than 5 seconds!). You make me feel like the best chef around! I have yet to find a food that you won’t eat. I love how you aren’t afraid to get dirty, crawl around in the grass, and splash in the pool. You are rough and tumble and all boy. I love that. I love YOU.

From the day we found out that you were alive and growing inside of me, Daddy and I have been praying specifically for you, Levi Andrew. We pray that your life would be a reflection of Jesus….a life that loves and trusts God, strives for integrity, wisdom, courage, and diligence. We also pray that God’s covenant with Levi (as described in Malachi 2:5-6) would describe your life-“he revered me and stood in awe of my name…true instruction was in his mouth and nothing false was found on his lips. He walked with me in peace and uprightness, and turned many from sin.” God has huge plans and a specific purpose for your life. I cannot wait to encourage you as that plan is revealed. Daddy and I are so proud of you and we celebrate every aspect of you.

And speaking of Daddy, are you aware that you have the best Daddy in the world? He is fun, caring, involved, and loves us so deeply. However, most importantly he loves Jesus and his life displays His Name. Daddy is a man of integrity, honor, wisdom, courage, generosity, compassion, gentleness yet strength, and loyalty. He serves unlike anyone I have ever known. I pray one day you will become a man who loves and serves his family like Daddy does ours. You have so much to learn from him.

Happy, happy, happy 1^st birthday sweet boy! I cannot wait for the many adventures we will share this next year! Always reminding myself that the joy is in the journey so I don't get too sad about you growing up!

All the love I have,

Mama