Dear John Mark,

I can't believe that you're a great BIG four-year-old and I'm trying desperately not to burst into tears every time I think about you growing up.  Here's a rundown of your current stats and activities.

Physical Stats:
-Height: 45 1/8", 100%
-Weight: 46 pounds, 96%
-Shoe size: 13.5 or 1
-Shirt size: 5/6
-Pant size: 6 slim

You love:
-your grandparents
-going to bebe & poppy's
-candyland
-yogurt
-scooby-doo
-slushies
-corndogs
-singing silly songs you make up
-EVERYTHING superhero... especially IronMan and Wolverine
-dressing up in your superhero costumes
-the phrases "oh brother" and "haha, very funny"
-girls with curly hair (seriously)
-swimming
-chick-fil-a

You DON'T love:
-peas!
-sitting still
-being called a baby, or even little boy
-taking naps
-staying inside (unless you're watching scooby-doo!)
-spiders, unless they've been captured

Words to describe you:
happy, kind, smart, funny, quick, curious, handsome, TALL, loving, strong, great with adults, easy

Narty-noo, I love you so very much.  These four years have flown by and it feels like yesterday you were brand new.  I thank God for you everyday, and ask Him to keep you safe and strong.  But more than that, I ask that He would start instilling in you now a love for Him and the things of Him.  You are everything I could have ever asked for in a little boy.  I'm so glad God gave me you.

Love,
Mommy

a very pop-py birthday

Because of our intense schedule this summer, I decided to keep John Mark's birthday party low-key and family only (and a couple of close friends).  After looking at my options, I decided to have his party at Pops on Route 66.  It was a great place for a party- minus the 110 degree HEAT we had going on Saturday evening...

The week before the party was super busy- Micah was out of town and I was swamped at work getting the children's ministry ready to send 215 kids to camp on Monday.  Friday morning, I was wandering around hobby lobby totally uninspired for the birthday party... thankfully, I have amazing friends who are super creative!  The party ended up being perfect! 

Here's a quick recap in pictures of the big day!

Fun straws/toppers

Fun party hats

Fun party favors

Fun friends

Fun presents

Unfortunately, my photographing friend's camera died before we could get pictures of cake- but they were cupcakes and they were cute, trust me.

Thanks Lindsey for making me look good with all your awesome party favor designs!  Thanks Jamie for the fabulous pictures!  Thanks Sissy Bird for the awesome invitations!  Thanks Lisa for the super cute "4" shirt!  And thanks to everyone who came and sweated to make John Mark's day super special.  We love all of you!