Happy Birthday, Joe!

I can hardly believe it.  My baby turns four today.  FOUR!

As cliche as it sounds, it doesn't seem all that long ago that I was staring into the sparkling eyes of my newborn Joe!  That sparkle has never gone away! 

Joe is full of life and energy and spirit - and just a little (ahem) stubbornness!  He is fiercely independent, yet still relies on his mama's arms or the protection and help of his big brothers.  

 He is a wonderful cheerleader for his big brothers, as they venture out into their own interests.

 And he's developing distinct interests of his own - sports, drawing, nature and so many other things!

He is our family ham bone and brings a lot of laughter and joy to all of us!  

 This year he got to know his Papa and is developing memories of other extended family members.

 While he insists that he is a "big boy," he still needs naps and is definitely the baby of the family.

We are so grateful for the spunk and love Joe adds to our family!  We pray that this next year as a four year old is one filled with even more joy, learning, smiles and memories!  

Happy Birthday, sweet Joe!