NINE

On yesterday our Garrison Cade turned 9!

We are amazed that we have a 9 year old now! I'm feeling a little old about it....and a little emotional too. We're a year away from double digits!! The days can be long but the years are sooo short. Lightning fast! I can't believe we're halfway to 18. I almost cried yesterday morning thinking about him leaving the nest 9 years from now. But then I tried to remember to focus on the now and soak up his 9 year old self. 😊 This very age and stage is precious and priceless and sweet and memorable. God's grace is so abundant. 

9 at 9....

(9 facts at age 9 about our baby boy. 😊)

1. You are learning how to spend time with the Lord, read His Word, and reflect on His promises. The Jesus Calling devotion for kids has been great for you and so has your brand new Bible. We love watching you grow in your walk and are so thankful for His grace and goodness in your life!!

2. You LOVE to read. 3rd grade has made you a reading machine. You can't get enough and take a book everywhere with you. We are so THRILLED that you love books and reading!

3. Soccer is your sport of choice (to play) right now. For the first time ever, you chose to forgo baseball this Spring and play soccer instead. It was a really tough decision for you but you went with your "gut" and are excited about the upcoming season.

4. You are a big time daddy's boy. You love and admire him and want to spend time with him constantly. You have a great role model in him and he has a forever friend in you. 

5. You are intense, competitive, and passionate. I've said this before but you love, think, and feel deeply. You have a big heart, you overthink, you question everything, and you tend to be a little like your mama. 😊

6. You are very well mannered and polite. You are thoughtful and kind. You are sweet to the core.  

7. You have the biggest sweet tooth I've ever seen. 😊 It's something serious. And you're hungry all the time. We can't keep you full!

8. You love your little brothers BIG. Y'all may have moments of trying to kill each other, but the majority of most days y'all are best friends and want to do everything together. I can't even really describe the bond you have. It's something I've prayed for and watched God bless over the years with a smile and tears of joy. Thank you for being an amazing big brother.

9. Family is your favorite. You love our family time, outings, and even just regular days at home. And you love your grandparents, cousins, and aunts and uncles LOTS. 

Garrison Cade,

We are so thankful God gave us you and allowed us to be your parents. You are one of our biggest blessings and greatest joys. Thank you for being you and for your patience with us as we've learned together how to navigate this crazy adventure called parenthood.

Happy Birthday to our most favorite 9 year old! We love you every minute of every day!!