I sound like a broken record, but I truly can't believe it has already been four years since I gave birth to Zeke. He is such a blessing. He is outgoing, silly, opinionated, strong willed, loving, bright, and makes me laugh all the time. As I watch him grow into the person God made him, I see so much of myself, Gregg, my mom and dad, and then his own unique personality. We pray God will use Zeke in a mighty way to serve Him someday.
We were incredibly thankful to have family down to visit for Zeke's 4th birthday. Jared, Jami, Kariss, Sophia, Harper, Mom, and Dad all came to celebrate. Jared's family was able to stay in our upstairs space (love having that option in this home) and Mom and Dad spent the night in the bridal suite at the Windsor (heehee!).
The kids had a great time waking up together like they did at the beach last year. This year was a little harder for Zeke, though, because he is not used to sharing the backyard and his toys. It was a hard lesson, but one that is important for him to learn.
The day of the party, we set up all of the Thomas decorations and made lunch. Zeke requested hotdogs. Everyone enjoyed the organic beef hotdogs, but weren't too keen on the spelt hotdog buns...ha!
We opened gifts, then everyone set out to put together the train set (even Dad!). Jared and Gregg put together Zeke's art easel/desk (from us) and the train table (from Wynna and Papa).
Next, we had cake. As you know, I march to the beat of my own drum sometimes, so avoiding sugar at a birthday party can be a challenge. I ordered a spelt angel food cake from Berlin Natural Bakery. They mill their own grains. It did have sweetener, but not white sugar. I made some whipped cream and cut up strawberries. It looked beautiful and was delicious!
Then, the kids played a Thomas game. It was like pin the tail on the donkey, but you pinned the funnel on Thomas! They were blindfolded. Kariss almost hit it perfectly. It was a cute, fun little game.
The little girls had fun getting to explore and know each other better too. They were not in on the action as much, but we tried to include them.
A family picture before Gregg had to leave for his trip...
The following day (Zeke's actual birthday), we all went to our new church, Cornerstone Church. We went out to eat at Ruby Tuesday after church before everyone had to head home.
I was humbled that everyone would take time from work and life to drive down and spend the weekend with us. We are so thankful for family and can't wait for them to come back when it's warmer and they can all swim.
Praise God from Whom ALL blessings flow! Happy Birthday, Zeke!!!
