four

 little man Cree turned four last month...this post comes a bit late, but hey, it's here.  

the cake below, by Hodgepodge cakes, is a pretty close "take" on Cree's favourite thing, what he calls "Grandpa's tractor".  i blogged about his obsession last month, i believe.

so grateful for all of him...the struggling, tantrum parts and the "sweet as pie", deep thinking parts.  he is social and smart.  he is emotional and definitely a deep feeling kid.  he loves to play hard, and seems to have the makings of a little athlete.  yes, we're definitely biased! ;)  he has agility, speed, and interest in a variety of sports already.  he loves to bike, and more recently swim. oddly though, one of his other favourite activities is to hang out and work alongside whomever is tackling a household task.  he actually really does like to work at real jobs, for now at least...he loves lawn tractors, ice cream, and "visits" with his extended family and older siblings.  he loves loud music in Jeff's truck, and Fireman Sam on Netflix.

more than all of that, he's been a gift of joy.  being the mom of this dear boy has taught me much....sooo much.  Jeff and I often discuss this...specifically, to slow down more, to catch the wonder that Cree sees in the every day little things, to roll with the interruptions better and with more grace, to be fully present, to be sillier and to love so deeply, even on the hard days when this feels like "a lot".  

God knew we needed you, little man.  

Happy 4th Birthday Creedence....you are so loved!