Where did the time go?

It seems like I write so many posts these days wondering how it could be that my children are another year older.  It's actually quite silly, but truly how I feel!  Once again I'm amazed at the age of one of my children because it was only yesterday that they were small.

Today we're celebrating Jake's 18th birthday!  What??

 

I remember the day he was born, 18 years ago, seven weeks early and only 4 lbs.  He was my little "frog". I know that's a terrible nickname, but last night at 12:01 I texted him to say Happy Birthday, and said "I can't believe my little frog is 18" and he texted back, "I will always be your little frog". *wiping tears*

We were thrilled to have him in our lives, yet worried so much that first year because he was always so sick.

I loved watching the bond grow between him and Kodi.

She always took care of him.

Over the years I've loved every minute of being his Mom.

Watching him grow stronger.

 

 Seeing him develop his personality.

 

Trying to be like his Dad.

 Figuring out who he wanted to be.

And doing it all with the kindest soul and most loving heart.

I worried that he was too sweet and too shy.

Little did I know he would grow to be a performer who is more comfortable on stage than anywhere else!

Thank you for choosing us Jake.  I feel so blessed to have shared the last 18 years with you,  and I look forward to seeing what the future holds.

Happy Birthday.