Happy Birthday to Our Firstborn

Our firstborn turns 19 this weekend, Sunday, February 8. I'm still pinching myself, thinking that I'm in a dream. I can't believe my little 'strong man' is now a fine young adult man, making his own way in the world. Once upon a time, he had tiny little fat feet that I loved to sqeeze and cover with kisses. Now he has big ole size 12 wides and though I love him so very much, I ain't kissing no feet! I remember the little cottonhead boy who would laugh the heartiest laugh at the drop of a hat. He's smile so big and laugh so hard it looked as if his little jaw would fall off! I remember the little baby boy who would wrap his tiny fingers around a strand of my hair when he slept, snuggled safely in my arms. He was and still is our first born, the one who trained us as parents, who has brought and continues to bring us joy in life. He is our reward from the Lord!

Our firstborn is a unique mix of his father and I. We've always said he is exaclty half Scott and half me...even down to those big ole feet:-) Though he does favor his father so very much, as he's gotten older friends and family say he's beginning to favor me as well. I don't know if that is good or bad, but despite us, he's a very handsome guy! His quiet demeaner and sweet spirit are his trademarks. He is a deep thinker and feeler, though you may not know what he's thinking or feeling because of his quiet, shy nature. He cares and loves deeply, too. He's a man of few words, but when he does speak, it often is something that is highly profound, funny, or intelligent. He doesn't mince words, yet he is respectful. He has a sarcastic sense of humor and really cracks us up! His quick wit and humor catches people off guard because of his quiet nature, and yet his humor is always right on target. It's so neat to see him get tickled at the littlest things. He'll get this big grin and a little michevious glean in his eye.

Some things many people may not know about our son: He's a hard worker; he never, ever, ever complains - not ever; he will do anything you ask, again without complaint; he takes great joy in helping others; he gets a glean in his eye when he shares something God has revealed to him in his Bible study; he's very smart; he loves science; he's technologically gifted; he plays trombone - but it's been awhile; he helped set up and break down Freedom Hall AND the children's area when PCC was at Pace High (7th grade through 11th grade); he loves cheesecake; he is very caring; he's great with kids and served as a volunteer in children's ministry; he LOVES history (wonder where he gets that from) but hates math (what???); he's a creature of habit, which is good; he LOVES his XBox 360 - what young man doesn't?

Mathew has been such a wonderful joy in our lives. He continues to amaze us as his parents. He's a wonderful big brother. He really does love his sister and little brother, despite what they say. He is "The Monitor," ensuring Brittany and Michael do the right thing. He is very happy to point out to them when they are not. He always has looked out for their best interests and has been their protector all of there lives, whether they liked it or not. Mathew has protected them from bullies at school, (yes, quiet, shy Mathew has stood up on behalf of his sister on more than one occassion), and watched out for their well being. He has always been their 'go to guy' -the one they turn to when they need help or something fixed. And yes, it is his official duty as big brother to aggravate and pick on the younger siblings. This is a duty he has faithfully fulfilled and derives much joy from, not to mention become an expert at. He also spends quite a bit of time with his little brother. He is so patient and kind with him, though Michael fears for his life if he is ever caught in Mathew's stuff! In fact, Mathew let's little Michael hang out with him in his room whenever he's home. It's neat to see him take time with Michael.

Yes, our firstborn is now a very fine young man. He has done well in college and is beginning to branch out more. He is coming out of his shell, making new friends, and attending a new church while away at school. He's the happiest that I've ever known him to be. College is agreeing with him! I'm thankful for the relationship he has with Christ. I pray that each year, he is drawn closer to our Lord. I'm thankful for our family, friends, church, and the people who've shaped his life. Thank you, friends, for you played a major role in his life. I'm thankful to God for the young man who is our son.

Happy Birthday, Son! We love you and are honored that God chose us to be your parents. Follow Christ, love Him, seek Him first, and serve Him wholeheartedly so that you may enjoy long life. Our prayer for you is for a lifetime of joy, peace, and for you to be successful everywhere, so that an entire generation of godly people will be blessed!

Praise the Lord!

How joyful are those who fear the Lord

and delight in obeying his commands.

2 Their children will be successful everywhere;

an entire generation of godly people will be blessed.

3 They themselves will be wealthy,

and their good deeds will last forever.

Psalm 112:1-3

In His Love, Cathy