Joel's birthday

Yesterday we celebrated Joel's 13th birthday! How fast the years have gone. It was really nice to have Mark's parents here as well as my mom to celebrate with us. We all had a wonderful day together and a very happy day, although I had some tears now and then as I reflected on this milestone birthday. After everyone went to bed last night, I got out the baby book and looked at Joel's newborn pictures of his first few months. I am not sad that he is growing up... he is growing into a wonderful young man and we are so proud of him!! And we are very thankful to God for giving him to us to love, teach, nurture and guide through life. It is a huge responsibility to be a parent, but what a joy and blessing it is!