And then he turned sixteen ....

This morning I sat at my devotional desk, where I've sat so many times before, looking at the three pictures of my wee babes. Josiah's is when he is just hours old, already alert and happy and interested in everything around him. As I held that picture in my hands, I prayed and cried out to my Lord for the heart and life of my child -- now taller than me, definitely smarter than me, and quickly approaching independence and responsibility well beyond his years. Sixteen.

We tried to decide just when we began the tradition of the number pancakes -- likely when Josiah was 3 or 4 years old. It is a well-anticipated tradition ... each number filled with sustenance and time and love.

His face is changing, had to finally shave off those long hairs growing over his top lip. A late bloomer physically like his Momma ... God has used this humble beginning in his life to grow him more like Him. I am so proud of the man he is becoming.

My children are the dearest of friends -- one of the many, many tremendous benefits of homeschooling. Isabelle and Isaac spent a good deal of their own money to buy him a gift he'll use time and again. They were so anticipating giving it. The joy on their faces was worth more than the look on his ...

I've held it together these days and weeks leading up to this momentous day in our family. A simple prayer for the blessing of our food and the life of our firstborn allowed the floodgates to flow freely. My children are quite accustomed to my tears .... here I receive a Momma hug as I weep into the neck of my man-child.

Who am I to deserve this greatest of gifts? Thanksgiving brings contentment. I am ever so content .... to God be all the glory.