Owen, Where Has the Time Gone?

Taken on your 4th birthday eve

At your third birthday party

At your second birthday party

The big 1 year old!

A few weeks old: an absolute angel baby!

Mama's first glimpse

Oh my Owen, looking back on these pictures makes me smile. I cannot, cannot believe you will be four years old by the time anybody reads this. You were such a Godsend to our family. We needed you more than we even knew. You came into the world our smallest baby on an unseasonably cold day and changed us forever. You could quite possibly have been the sweetest baby ever, and we appreciated and loved you so much. You grew into a boy that would be someone's very best friend in the whole world and a child who makes his parent's so proud.

This year has been a busy one for you. You entered into your hardest stage so far as you tried to figure out your place in the world. You have always been content to be in the background but this year, you decided to fight for your right to be heard. We have always had a hunch that you would be a middle child and this year, your little sister made you just that. Knowing your sensitive nature and insecurities, we have always tried to let you know how special you are to us. You have a tender heart. You have a funny sense of humor and make me laugh, and you are such a smart little boy. We have loved watching you play with your little sister when you think no one is watching. We have loved watching you care for your big brother and best friend these past few months. One of my favorite memories will always be watching you hold Micah's hand and walking him down the halls for his physical therapy. You want him to run with you again and pray for that every night.

You talk our ears off these days, especially if it is something you are passionate about. This year you started preschool and, while you love it, you always insist that you would rather stay home than go. You were truly born into an introverted family! It is funny to see how you retreat when you get around crowds and how much you let loose at home with us. You love to help me. I loved our Wednesdays together this year as you walked around with me and helped me with my housework while I listened to you tell me stories. You can write your name, count as high as you want, surprise us with your mental math skills, and get yourself dressed complete with shoes on the wrong feet! You finally moved out of a crib this year into the top bunk of your new shared room. The memories you will make in there are bound to be immeasurable. You have a wonderful imagination and have actually awoken to fears of wasps in bubbles chasing you from your dreams! You are gaining a true sense of wonder at the Lord and all his works. You talk about all the amazing things God could do as you ponder his omnipotence. You are amazed at the promise of Heaven and have commented that "in Heaven, I can eat chicken from Chick-fil-a because I won't even be allergic to eggs!" Hopefully, it won't take that long as the numbers show your allergy to eggs is almost gone.

We love you, Owen more than you can ever know. And we pray that this upcoming year you would grow even more "in wisdom and stature and favor with God and man." Happy Birthday!