Our Baby Turns FOUR!!!

I have heard the words, "Enjoy them! They grow up before you know it!" or some variation of that phrase at least 5,000 times since we started having children. At first, I told myself I would NOT repeat this untimely advice to a poor, struggling, young mother who is just trying to keep her sanity from day to day. Now, lest you think me ungrateful, or that I don't enjoy my children, let me explain: The advice usually comes during the most inopportune moments of motherhood. ie: The grocery store. You can take your children or a couple of wild goats to the grocery store. Not much difference. Or how about church? Need I say more? (Actually, I could go on and on about this one, but I will spare you.) Sometimes, I will be conversing with someone over the phone while dragging three "cling-on's" around the house. They are either begging for something, crying because someone hurt them, or repeating, "Mom!" over and over and over. And no doubt, a version of that phrase will come out of the person (usually my Mom) on the other end of the phone. My response? A weak smile, a roll of the eye's, and an "I knoooow!" Wouldn't it be interesting if someone actually said these words when I WAS enjoying my children, because believe it or not, I DO! Or do I? Recently, I came to the realization that if I don't enjoy them even during the times listed above, I may miss their entire childhood, or, much of it anyway! So, I've decided I don't think it's so bad anymore to remind myself and others to enjoy them! They REALLY DO grow up fast!!! The words from the hymn, "Improve the Shining Moments" come to mind:

Time flies on wings of lightning;

We cannot call it back.

It comes, then passes forward

Along its onward track.

And if we are not mindful,

The chance will fade away,

For life is quick in passing.

'Tis as a single day.

So, on to the purpose of this post to begin with, and my proof that they really do grow up fast - James (MY BABY) has turned FOUR! When Thomas, or any of my other children turned four, they were NOT babies. But, James is. Why is this? Maybe mothers go into denial with their youngest, and refuse to believe that they are indeed growing up! So, here are pictures of my sweet, four-year-old baby boy - James! 

Helping Mommy make his birthday cake! (Amazing what babies can do these days!)

And, of course, who can get enough of this heavenly cake batter??? Not James!

The end result. I did an internet search that afternoon for "easy birthday cakes" and found this. I just had to make a quick trip to the grocery store for the candy toppings and wah-lah!

Before Sarah went to bed the night before, she had this sitting right where James eats his breakfast. Priceless.

That evening, we invited Grandparents over for a small birthday party. (I like things small and simple.) :)

Opening the gifts. It looks like Marianne is attempting to read the card to him.

Okay, so I really can't deny that this little guy is getting to be a big boy! And, we all just adore him so much!!! He is our daily comic relief, and we are SO grateful for him in our lives. Happy 4th birthday James! We love you!