Nicholas: The 5 year mark

We've all heard it a million times, "they grow up so fast". I know it's true, but I'm still shocked when I experience it. Wasn't it just the other day that this picture was taken? But somehow a half a decade has come and gone and my sweet baby has gotten so big! He no longer fits in my arms but thankfully he still loves to cuddle and gives great hugs! We celebrated Nick's 5th birthday last week with a small party with some good friends at Glow in the dark putt putt. They had a blast with full access to the whole place and as much mini golf as they wanted! Afterwards, a few friends stuck around and we had fun exploring Discover Mills by riding the train through the mall and playing at the Lego store. Of course this wasn't our only celebration. We got the birthday festivities started early with a pool party and birthday celebration with cousin Mady and family a few weekends ago. For his birthday dinner he chose Moe's and Aunt Ashley joined us. And the celebrations still aren't over as tomorrow we'll celebrate with Mimi because they were on a fabulous trip to California the week of his birthday. It's more fun when it lasts all month right? So here's to our precious Nicholas on your 5th birthday! What an incredible boy you have become! You are the most loving, kind hearted friend and big brother. You always take such excellent care of Nolan and any other young children you are with. You make friends wherever you go and always make those friends feel special. And oh man are you a smart one with an incredible memory! Not a day goes by that you don't wow me with something you say or remember or have learned. I'm so glad I have you around everyday to remind me where I'm going and of our great memories! What in the world will I do without you all day when you go off to kindergarten in less than 2 months?! How can this be?? I had to stop the tears from flowing the other day as we went for your kindergarten screening and registering. You did an incredible job and the teacher was blown away by how well you did in all of the areas. You are going to be a kindergarten superstar!! I pray that these next five years go a little bit slower than these first 5 did and that we (I) focus more on savoring the present moments we are given and not rushing to the next milestone. I am overcome with gratitude for all of God's blessings that I so do not deserve yet He bestows anyway. And Nicholas, baby, you are one of those top blessings! How in the world I got the honor of being your Mom, I will never know but hope to never take for granted. It is an honor that God has entrusted your Daddy and I with and we hope to shape and impact your life for Christ's good works that He has prepared in advance for you--just you! Oh the places you'll go!! Happy Birthday, Nicholas Scott Garrison! What a joy you are!