blogger mom

Yesterday was our 8 year anniversary. In the last 8 years we've...
-lived in five different houses
-had three children
-worked 9 different jobs between the two of us
Most of our days together have been pretty amazing, some of them have been incredible painful and difficult. I wouldn't trade any of them because the good days and the bad days have brought us to where we are today. I love my husband. He is a man of integrity who loves his wife and boys unconditionally. I love learning what it means to follow Jesus with him. Last night we went out without the boys for the first time since Evan was born. We put them to bed at 7:30 and were out of the house by 8. Jen stayed at the house for us while we enjoyed 3 1/2 hours of adult conversation. We went to Stauf's, Geni's and the Drexel to see Prarie Home Companion. It was a late night, and I'm a little tired today, but it was worth it.

And today we are celebrating again. Riley is five years old today. It doesn't seem possible. We started a new Stetler family birthday tradition with him this morning. He woke up to a giant pancake Eric made for him. We stuck five candles in it and sang "Happy Birthday" to him. Then we gave him the present we got him. Remember your first Fisher Price camera? You wouldn't believe how much they've changed. Now it's digital and completely kid friendly. He's really excited to use it. Tonight we'll celebrate at Nana and Papaw's house. Saturday is his party with his friends. Then we'll go to Canton next weekend to celebrate with Eric's family. Some of my favorite things about Riley are...
-watching him play his guitar and make up songs
-watching him talk to Evan. Evan seems to smile immediately when Riley walks in the room
-his sensitive spirit
-when he says "the body of Christ" as he breaks the bread for communion each week at gathering
-his big hugs
-watching him teach Trey new things, right now it's how to use the computer
He tells me often, "Mommy, I was your first baby. I'll always be your best buddy." He's my boy. I love him so much.