Happy Birthday, Ava

My dear, sweet, spunky Ava -

What a bright light you are to our family! You're 4 years old! I don't know what Daddy and I would do without you. You are charming, you are talkative, you are so so very naughty.

Yes, that's right, I said naughty. You push buttons and boundaries as if it is a commandment in the Bible.

You are emotional, sensitive, dare I say Melancholy? You come by that honestly, both Mommy and Daddy are a bit melancholy. We love that about you. I love that you cry when you see others hurting. I love that you have so many feelings in your little heart.

God has given you a unique and beautiful spirit, made in His image. You are beautiful. You are loved, albeit imperfectly by us, you are loved perfectly by God.

You make us laugh. Laugh so hard our tummies hurt. You have a way of saying things that just sends me into a complete giggle-fest. I love being your Mommy!

More than anything else, Daddy and I pray that you will grow up to be a little girl who is passionate about your Savior. That you will feel the pain of someone who does not know Him, and reach out in love. That is my prayer for you.

As you enter this big new age of 4, may God bless you. May God etch His life in your heart, may he soften you to love Him.

Bring it on, age 4. Spunk, naughtiness, boundary-pushing, and tears. Hugs, kisses, smiles, belly laughs, wide-eyed learning, and love.

Happy Birthday, Ava-Beva. I love you.