Celebrating FOUR

Every girl knows that a great birthday starts with a cup of tea.

in the new tea cup you got for Easter, of course.

But the tea definitely tastes better when shared with your sisters.

and a brother who can only eat easily-mushable things. :)

Our tradition for the children to bake their birthday creation with me is a keeper, and my favorite part wasn't sampling the batter.  It was those sweet kisses from the birthday girl.

Of course, Little Bit's favorite part WAS cleaning the beater.

AND putting the candies in the cupcakes and then eating the leftovers.

But in the midst of her busy birth DAY, she remembered to stop and smell the carnations.

I won't even begin to try to put into words that look on her face.  

Homemade pizza for dinner!

Then to the gifts....alphabet stringing beads, a floral suitcase, a phonics game, binoculars....

His good looks saved his life....

Yes, I know...just you try and take a picture late at night of eight children of varying ages and temperaments.  Go ahead.  I dare you.

A purse birthday candle.  It's a girl thing.

And I miss the actual blow that extinguished the big fire!  Clairesy was just waiting to beat sister to the candle.

                                                                              Yum!

Sweet Elisabeth...what an adventurous four years it has been.  Your days of complete and dangerous mischief are fading away as you grow more and more into a godly young lady.  We have been stretched and challenged as your Mommy and Daddy and reminded that God is the most patient Parent.  Your sea foam green eyes melt our hearts and your passionate ways keep us on our knees.  Your smiles grab us tightly, reminding us to enjoy each moment.

You are a reminder to us that God is always working and that His ways are full of blessing and growth and grace.  And every day you show us grace and offer us forgiveness as we most imperfectly try to train you up in the way you should go.  What would our world be like without our dearest Little Bit?

May God take that passion for life that burns deep within you and use it for His glory.  May you passionately live a life poured out to Christ.  May you passionately love His Word and His truth.  May you passionately and faithfully walk with Him always.

We're so blessed God chose us to be your family, and we delight in seeing more and more each day God completing the work He has begun in you.

We love you, precious daughter!