"Cowabunga, dude!!"

Growing up, I definitely did not watch Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.  And even though I had two brothers, they didn't watch the show either.  Needless to say, I was oblivious to turtle power.

That is until Andrew.  Andrew grew up loving TMNT. He had toys, lunch boxes, the bedding set, VHS tapes--he was a die hard.

You can imagine his excitement when Hudson found interest in the turtle gang.  Andrew's mom had a whole trunk of old figurines and play sets. Hudson and Andrew started playing with them whenever we were over there. Hud's new found fascination has only grown so when asked what kind of party he wanted for his 4th birthday, it was no surprise when he said Mikey-angelo (his favorite turtle).

What little I know about turtles is that they love a good time, they love to defend the city from Shredder and the other bad guys, and they LOVE pizza!

Andrew's grandparents own a fabulous pizza shop in our town.  They have had it for over 25 years. Andrew had a childhood party there and so when he suggested it I though the idea was perfect!

Hudson's party pretty much planned itself after that.  The kids would come and make their own pizzas, a simple game, some cake and presents.  Just a really simple, sweet party with our family and Hudson's closest buddies.

When I was setting up, I began to worry if it was enough.  (Darn Pinterest for making me feel inadequate at times!!) But when Hudson told Andrew and I it was the best party ever, and I saw his little face beaming and heard his belly laughs with his friends, that worry totally dissipated.

Happy 4th birthday, sweet Hud!

My baby is now a boy

Four.  FOUR.  Let that sink in for a minute.  This birthday was tough for me.  Every birthday before, I still saw some semblance of my baby, our first baby.  But this year, this year he was all boy.

I can't believe the boy who made me a mommy is four.  I have watched you change so  much this past year, Hudson.  You blow me away with how bright you are.  You are witty, smart, helpful.  You have a wonderful imagination.  You are curious.  You are sensitive.  You watch the world and drink it in and process so many observations that are just beyond.

You have a beautiful heart.  You are painstakingly strong-willed.  You long to be heard.  You see the world in black and white; right and wrong.  You distress when things seem unfair.  You are learning that fair isn't always going to happen {especially as the oldest of three boys} and grappling to deal with it.

We sent you off to preschool this year.  We moved [again] to be close to family and friends [again]. You have been there with your daddy and me through so many changes.  Moves, new jobs, new siblings. You are such a strong boy.

I struggle. Oh, how I have struggled to parent you this past year.  You are often too smart for your own good. ;) Our personalities, so similar, sometimes clash.  We love big. We are convicted to our core.  We are both right, always. You have taught me so much about grace. And forgiveness. And second chances. And do overs. And unconditional love.

You became a big brother all over.  You have always been so good at it but WOW! Now, to watch you with Gabe.  He adores you.  You know how to make him laugh.  You are gentle and sweet to him.  You love him so much.  It overflows my cup to watch you care for your baby brother.

And Beau.  Your sidekick.  Your partner in crime.  The thorn in your side. {Depending on the day.} He learns from you. He desires to make YOU laugh.  He adores and looks up to you. You have such a big responsibility as the big brother.  I have never been more sure of a boy up to the task.

It seems to be going so fast.  One more year with you at home most days then {POOF} off to school you'll go.  I know there is still so much I want to do with you while you are here with me each day.

Sweet Hudson, I hope you know how loved you are. I pray you know how special you are.  How God has planned such great things for you.  I pray every day that I can parent you in the way He desires.  I pray this next year is filled with so many good things as you continue to learn and grow and charm each person you meet.  Your daddy and I are so proud of you.  We are so blessed to be your parents.

Xoxo