Outnumbered: Happy 7th Birthday James & Andrew!!!

On July 11, 2006--two tiny baby boys entered the world and we became parents for the first time.

We quickly became very, very good at holding two babies at the same time.


Sharing a bassinet on their actual "birth" day.

They were so tiny, they could share a bouncy seat.

Holding each others arms

One of the rare instances where we actually dressed them alike as babies.

Tummy time is more fun with a twin brother.

Life has never been dull with these two boys in our home. Sure there is more work some days (okay, a lot more work!), but the laughter and joy they've brought has also been exponential. I prayed for these baby boys before I held them in my arms. I had no idea the ways that I would be changed for the better and what I would learn from them. I have loved watching their personalities emerge over the years.

Happy 1st Birthday Andrew (left) & James!

Happy 2nd Birthday Andrew (left) & James!

I've watched them communicate wordlessly with each other and use made up "twin" language. I've giggled at their antics and the things that they do exactly the same way without noticing the other one. I've fought for you to be seen as two separate people and not just "twins." I've also had the rare occasion where I've called you by the other one's name. And I'm waiting for the day when you purposefully try to trick us by switching places with each other (I will not be showing you the Parent Trap anytime soon).

Happy 3rd Birthday Andrew (on the left again) and James!

I've experienced all the firsts (twice at a time). I've wished it would slow down and I could keep you little, but time goes on and you grow and grow and grow.

4th Birthday--James (left) & Andrew

I've worried about, cried for, prayed over and rooted for both of you countless times in the last seven years. Today, I celebrate you, Andrew and James. I thank God for you and the blessings that you are in our lives. I'm thankful for the privilege it is to be called your mom.

I'm thankful for these smiling faces. I'm thankful for your inquisitive minds (even if I sometimes tire of the questions). I'm thankful for your joy and zest for life.