Camp Clark: Birthday Babes

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Birthday Babes

Yesterday was a monumental day at Camp Clark - LTD turned 5 years old! It's hard to believe these 3 little angels that once averaged 4 lbs at birth are thriving 5-year-olds already. Where did all that time go and were we awake for it all? Oh, if only we could go back in time and re-live some of those magical moments that made us laugh hysterically, burst with pride at the mini and major milestones or cry because of overwhelming exhaustion. We are positive there are MANY more fond memories to look forward to. Even so, yesterday was filled with lots of emotion for Mama Bear coming to the realization of how quickly her cubs are growing up, but it was a very joyful day/week nonetheless.

Our 5 yr celebration began on Thanksgiving Day since Papa and Grandma Good came to town for the holiday and to celebrate LTD's birthday. We combined Thanksgiving, decorating the tree, decorating our house inside and out for Christmas, and a birthday celebration all into 4 days filled with fun and laughter.

Papa and Grandma left town on Monday and there were some sad faces but the smiles quickly returned the next day on their birthday when they awoke to colorfully-wrapped gifts and their favorite breakfast: pancakes and blueberries (for the eyes, nose, mouth). Later that day, LTD were treated to a special birthday celebration at school with their preschool friends and teachers. I got the chance to partake in it all since I volunteered that day in their classroom which was super rewarding. I loved seeing their faces light up over the birthday song and sharing tasty treats with everybody.

LTD felt SO loved after receiving all the thoughtful phone calls, cards and gifts from family and friends and a special visit from Ethan, one of Dylan's best buddies. We sincerely appreciate all the love that was shared!! After a full afternoon, Dave treated us to dinner at one of our favorite restaurants complete with balloons and ice cream sundaes. We ended our busy day with a big bubble bath, lots of bedtime stories and oodles of hugs and kisses. I personally enoyed snuggling EXTRA long with each child to let them know how much they are loved and how very special they are to us, their family and friends and most importantly, to God. They fell asleep so sweetly and I wished I had a camera to capture that moment with each of them.

The final birthday celebration is this Saturday with all their favorite friends. We plan to play a game of kickball at the park across the street and then will head inside for a "shoebox packing party" for Operation Christmas Child, our family's favorite charity. LTD are excited to share with their friends the gift of giving to children around the world who are hurting and have nothing. We will make sure to post lots of photos! If you want to learn more about OCC, their website is www.samaritanspurse.org/occ. Enjoy a few photos below of our "week".

Sisterly Love