A Year of Blessing with Zach

 Yesterday was Zach's first birthday.  It is hard to believe how fast time passed this last year.  Zach has brought so much joy to our lives! This kid fills my heart.  From his birth until now, God's faithfulness has shined brightly through the eyes of this little one.  He is the sweetest kid you will ever meet.  From teenage boys to little old ladies at the grocery store, his easy smile captures the heart of anyone who sees it.  He has such a fighting spirit.  Most of his life he has fought multiple food allergies that have made him break out in rashes all over his body.  Even at the worst of his allergic reactions, he has giggled easily and smiled brightly.

He's passionate but easy going.  Relaxed most of the time but is bored easily.  He loves interacting with others but can spend time alone piecing blocks and objects together. He tolerates the pestering of his older brother but clenches his little fists in protest when he's had enough.  He dances with his hands, he loves you through his eyes, and he fills your heart with his smile.  Zach is a wonderful child who completes our family in thousands of ways.

Here are some of my  favorite pictures of Zach's first year of life:

                             

                                 

                                  

                                 

                                  

What a year of blessing with this little man!  Even though there are aspects of this last year that were difficult, God used this sweet boy to fill my heart with so much love.  I am grateful to God for this precious life.

 Lord Jesus, I pray that Zach would come to know you and love you with all of his heart.  You have given him a joyful spirit, may he use it to comfort those that are broken hearted.  Call him to a life of humble devotion to your kingdom.  Use his eyes to see those in need, his hands to serve, his smile to encourage, his passion to inspire, his voice to share your love, his heart to love those that hurt him, his ears to hear the words of your Spirit, and his feet to pursue your ways.  Bless his life more than abundantly!  Thank you for the joy he brings to our family. Thank you for this beautiful grace you have so freely lavished on us. Amen.