We celebrated Gabriel's birthday last night. It was wonderful, in spite of a very bad morning for me. (I was sick, grouchy, harsh, and critical. Lunch time brought many tears and much sorrow, and from there the day began to look up.) Daniel baked his first birthday cake ever, compliments of this being the first birthday we've ever celebrated while I'm in my first trimester of pregnancy, and it turned out great. There was lots of help from family, too: Liana came over and helped me wrap gifts, set the table, and entertain the kids; Carina came and decorated the cake (cake decorating being my least favorite culinary job); and Mom washed dishes after dinner. I really did nothing.

My special boy seemed to enjoy his evening greatly. He certainly isn't feeling 100% yet (Saturday and Monday were throwing-up days for him), but at least his stomach wasn't "hurting." And, as hoped, he came alive when he began opening his drums!

I have many wonderful pictures and a video of him playing his first song on his very own drum set. Unfortunately, our old computer has temporarily quit on us and Daniel's very-new computer has yet to get all the right software installed so I can get pictures up. Many, many apologies. (It shouldn't be long, though.)

About Gabriel:

--he has taken leaps and bounds this year in terms of obedience. We have seen a great deal of improvement when it comes to emotional outbursts, respecting rules and boundaries, and thinking before acting/speaking. As with any of us, there is much growth yet to be seen, but overall the past several months have encouraged Daniel and I that he is beginning to "get it."

--favorite foods are becoming fewer and disliked foods are becoming greater, unfortunately. At least I can take comfort in that one of the all-time favorite foods is canteloupe. Nothing wrong with that.

--he continues to amaze me with his depth of talent and thought. His musical gifting is very real and his questions about life often profound.

--whatever he does, he does it wholly. His undivided focus when playing, talking, thinking, watching a movie-- anything!-- is astounding!

--he loves playing with his Uncle Merrick. I love that my little brother and my son are such fast friends. The almost four years age difference between them is enough that Gabriel thinks Merrick is amazing, while being few enough that they greatly enjoy "pretending" together.

--this Sunday he will attend children's church instead of nursery for the first time. I can't believe how quickly these past 4 years have flown. It really does seem like yesterday that he was my chubby infant.

--he is ever a gift and a blessing to Daniel and I. God knew the challenges and joys that he would mean for us and they are right. I can't imagine what my life would be like without Gabriel. What a merciful, loving, bountiful God I serve.