So...about River turning six. I keep having to remind myself that it happened. He is now six and my heart is so thrilled that he is growing up so healthfully and happily, but the other part of my heart is breaking. Weird combo, eh? I remember when the kids were much younger being told by several people to enjoy this time while it lasts because they grow up so fast. Wow! This could not be more true. You really can't blink, it's that fast.
My oldest child turned six on September 13th...oh, and so did his cousin, Kathryn. So very exciting to have a cousin with the same birthday, wouldn't you think?
River,
I am in awe of the little man you are growing up to be. I love seeing your fascination with life whether it be birds, climbing, soccer, mountain biking, swords, knights, books, you name it...I am in awe.
You have grown so much (and all too quickly, mind you) in these first six years of your life. We have seen you start out on a shaky note, but bounce right back and become the awesome little (sorry...big) kid that you are today. You are our blessing. Our gift from God. And though I am not a perfect mother by any stretch of the imagination, I want you to know how much I love you.
You probably are not aware of how often go into your room at night to check on you, kiss your nose, tuck you in, and simply sit there in amazement of just how blessed I am to be your mother. It takes all I can muster not to scoop you up into my arms and hold you like a baby. I do not, though. I, instead, listen to you breath and watch your eyelids jump around as you dream sweet dreams of all that inspires you.
You inspire me, River. I pray every night that I am and will be the mother you need. I pray for patience and for understanding. I realize that night time should be a time when I am relieved to have some kid-free time (and I do appreciate this time) but I also spend a great deal of time reflecting and in doing so...I often see my many shortcomings as a mother and my heart aches. I am learning...thank you for your patience and understanding with this mama.
I love you. Thank you for filling my life with your love, happiness, spunk, energy, and determination.
Wow! It seems like just yesterday he was in my arms as a baby, learning how to walk, etc. Now, he is six. Oh boy!
We celebrated River's and his cousin's birthday at Donna and Calvin's garden. They did an amazing job setting up a make-shift slip and slide....this one was more slide then slip (which made it even better). Now...I must post photos of Donna's garden sometime. It is so pretty. Many a'parties have been held there, as it is simply that fabulous.
So...here are some randoms of the newly six, River and then I will show you some from his birthday party...
I love River's little serious side...but he can also be super silly. In the above photos his eyes are speaking volumes. I suppose smiles were not needed because his eyes were so expressive? ;-)
Now for a few photos from the birthday bash celebrating River's and Kathryn's special day.
Oh, and just so you know...the party had a duo-theme. Half princess for Kathryn and half Knight for River. ;-)
We changed things up a bit for this year and I think it turned out great...we had a Sunday brunch party. Needless to say, lots of donuts and other delicious break-fasty foods were consumed.
 |
| Ashley drew a picture (of guitars) for Rocky. (He is going to give her guitar lessons...watch out Taylor Swift) |
And lastly...a photo of my Love. Whoa, this man is some kind of handsome!! This was taken at the party, so it's still so relevant. ;-) Plus, how can showing a photograph of the father of the birthday boy not be relevant, right? I mean...without him, would River have been possible? I think not!
There were lots more photos, but I believe these give a good glimpse of the fun that was had.
I love you, River! (and you, too Ms. Kathryn!)
Thank you, Donna and Calvin, for allowing us (once again) to use your home and garden for such a beautiful, fun occasion. ;-)
-kelly
