Dear Nathanael,

Dear Nathanael,

      I can't believe it. You turned FIVE yesterday. What?! I am still in denial. It's so scary how fast the time is going..I wish it would just slow down. You were so cute yesterday when you woke up. You said "Look how tall I am!" as you stood up as big as you could. And, "look how fast I can run now!". You thought that once you woke up and were five that you would instantly be different. But honestly, that's how I feel sometimes. That yesterday you were my tiny, cuddly newborn all snuggled up in my arms..and today I woke up and you are this talking, running, precious little boy. That's how fast I feel like time has gone. I get way too emotional thinking about it! You are halfway through with preschool and will start kindergarten next year! How is this even possible?!

This was yesterday. One week old. 

And this is today. FIVE years old. What?!

Nathanael (aka Nate-Nate), you are such a joy. We are so proud of you! You never cease to amaze us with your sweet spirit and selfless attitude. I truly think that is a gift that God has given you. Just an example of this is at your 5th birthday party. You were opening presents and you opened one from Uncle Frank and Aunt Allyson. It was your favorite things into one: Mario and stuffed animals. There were two of them, a stuffed Mario and a stuffed turtle shell. You were so excited (as you can tell from the above pic)!! Anyway, you immediately gave the turtle shell to Noah and said "This one is yours, Noah!". You didn't even hesitate. Here it was, your special day and you were thinking of your brother.  People couldn't believe it. But, that's just you..so sweet and thoughtful. Even on your day. 

You had a great birthday party. This year you really wanted a "bouncy party". So, we invited family and your preschool friends and had a great party at Bounce U! I've never seen you more excited. You had a great time bouncing with your friends. And, then we had cake (Angry Birds!) and you opened presents. It could not have gone better. You loved your party and were sad when it was over. It was such a fun day!! Here are a few pics from the party...

Talking with Papa before the party

cake time!

Angry Birds cake

Happy Birthday, Nate-Nate!

Nicholas was waiting patiently for his cake...

presents!

new baseball glove!

Batman cave from Grandmama and Granddaddy!

You had to close your eyes for one more surprise...

You got to pick a treat from the treasure box and you picked a HUGE lollipop!

Happy 5th Birthday, Nathanael Thomas!! You are truly a gift from God. You bring so much joy to our family and to others around you. You are a great little brother to Noah and big brother to Nicholas. You and Noah are the best of friends and you are such a great example to Nicholas. He looks up to you so much! You are a sweet friend to your classmates. You are a good listener to you teachers. You are a sweet snuggle-bug and we love you to pieces!! We can't wait to see what this year brings for you!

We love you!!

Mom :)