Hello, tender friends!
My heart is so full. Everywhere he goes, Cub is greeting people by saying, “I had the best birthday ever!”
We threw him his first ever (he’s 4) birthday party last weekend. As we walked through the double doors, Anthony had everything set to go for everyone to yell “Surprise!”
Cub momentarily got overwhelmed and started furiously sucking his thumb. He didn’t know what to make of the situation! Then his best little buddy, Judah, from Sunday School came to give him a hug.
I felt such gratitude for Judah and his mom in that moment. I thought, May we all raise kids who instinctively know to give their friends hugs when they feel uncomfortable.
When it came time to sing “Happy Birthday,” Cub rocked back and forth and sang at the top of his lungs. To himself. That kid never misses an opportunity for joy, and watching him feel joyful is one of the most important things in our lives.
So many times throughout the week, I think to myself Why has God given us so much? I know so many people who have struggled with infertility, including very dear friends of mine. I don’t know why we get the miracle of this child when so many deserving people who would be wonderful parents don’t. I don’t know why we get this miracle of having such wonderful friends raising wonderful kids.
Looking around the room, all I saw was kindness and generosity being poured out on my Cub. I momentarily felt guilty because we have received so much. Then I kind of had to fight that feeling, because I believe the Father wants us to appreciate and enjoy these moments guilt-free.
When I asked Cub on the drive home what his favorite part of the party was, he said, “Playing and eating! Well actually mama, I liked everything about the party! Am I going to have another birthday next week?”
I’m so grateful for everyone who celebrated with us. I’m so grateful that Cub has friends who are being raised to care for the feelings of others. I’m so grateful for fellow moms who know how much these things mean to the kids. I’m so grateful that people took the time to show up when they’re busy raising kids of their own and putting food on the table.
God provides so many good things, and I regularly am grateful for food and shelter. But he is also provided this social network. Thank you, thank you, thank you, Lord, for providing us with these families that we can deepen our friendships with in years to come.
Okay, that’s all for today, tender friends! Thank you so much for stopping by.
(Look at that face! And if you’re wondering why his cupcake looks like that…his was an almond flour cupcake with almond butter on top as icing).
Thank you for sharing!
Please click here to return to the homepage..
tea and tenderness 
Leave a comment