Happy 9th Birthday, Evan!

Unless you have had the experience of giving birth to 2 children in less than 18 months, you may not understand the circumstances that the year 2001 brought to us! When Ryan was about six and a half months old, we were surprised to find that another little life was taking shape and would join us just shortly after his first birthday. Wanting Ryan to be as "old" as possible before sharing the news with family and friends, we waited until I was about 5 months along. I can't sympathize with those who become depressed over "unplanned" pregnancies simply because I never experienced negative emotions over the situation. Greg and I laughed the minute we found out, and laughed many times over throughout the pregnancy. Ryan was so young that he really didn't understand anything about it, so there was really no preparing him for what would take place.
On January 23rd, 2001, at approximately 9:02 a.m., a tiny 18" 6lb. 7oz., brown-eyed baby boy made his appearance. We were thrilled to give Ryan a little brother, knowing just how close they would be in years to come.
Now that several years have passed, we are more proud of Evan than we were the day he was born. Though the ups and downs of growing up are evident in his life, he has a tender heart that is sensitive to truth, and like the prophet Samuel, he heard the voice of God very early in life.
We are thankful to God for giving us the gift of Evan, and intend to spend the next 9years helping to prepare him for a life of Christian service.
Although sickness in the family sort of put a damper on the initial birthay plans, Evan claimed that this was the "best birthday ever"! He chose to start the day with breakfast at IHOP, then we had a little celebration at Mama and Papa's house.

Best buds getting ready to chow on pancakes (yes, they do everything together...notice the matching silver caps on the same teeth...)

Just getting over bronchitis and tonsillitis...

Recovering from a sinus infection, and finally getting that "sparkle" back in her eyes...

Lil' Miss Big Shot...

Birthday boy, Evan...

Getting a little impatient to open gifts...

This picture is just another example of the chaos that surrounds trying to get four wiggly bodies to pose nicely. Anybody say, "Where's Waldo?"

Finally, a REAL cowboy hat!

Checking out his cards and gifts...
Love you, buddy! Hope your day was great!