Joel and Josiah's birthday!!!!!

Seven years ago, September 13th 2003, our second set of twin little boys were born!!! Joel Caleb and Josiah Daniel! What a privilege to be able to birth them at home with 3 midwives, my husband and dear friend, Cheryl. I guess this has to be one of the most spiritual heights in my christian journey. An experience of much anticipation and many answers to prayer for this to take place in our home. A lot of scripture written, read, prayed to get me through what many thought was a bit dangerous, of having twins at home. But God did it!! Gave us two healthy boys without any complications. Little knowing that 3 years, 4 months and 10 days later I would be walking in the deepest valleys of my life, Joel's departure to be with the Lord. I will say as God was so faithful to bring them in this world He has been faithful as He has carried Joel out of this world. Very tough, many tears, a broken heart but I praise Him, I thank Him, I know Him, and I still miss him! So today, I remember the good gifts from above, the birth of Joel and Josiah and I will tell the Lord "thank you" for 3 years, 4 months and 10 days with Joel and "thank you" for seven years with Josiah and "also "thank you" that because of Christs victory over death I will have eternity to be with both of them!!

Since the guys work schedule was hindering a party for today, we had Josiah's BD party on Saturday! He picked out the theme a long time ago after we watched the "Up" movie. He had an Up/Explorer Party! I thought it was a great idea because it brought Joel into the picture as well. Since Joel is "Up" ( with Jesus) and because Josiah is still here "Exploring," it was perfect!! I did not do alot for the party but it was fun, and with 50 balloons, you can't go wrong!!!!!!!! Of course Josaih wanted hamburgers, hotdogs, cokes and chips. Cupcakes were top choice and a few sugar cookies equaled one happy explorer. We dressed him up like Russell in the movie, yellow shirt. brown shorts, orange bandanna, and a sash with some important badges on it. A flag, because Josiah is very patriotic, he likes to shoot fireworks, a football and basketball because he is a pro, a number 14, because he is still 'exploring' this world with 14 people (Troop #14) and a cross because he asked Jesus into his heart this year!! After presents, which he got way toooo many, and Mercy opening Joel's present, one of the Willow Tree figurines of a little boy that looked about 7 years old, and our wonderful meal, we set out to let the balloons go "up" to Joel.........all 50 of them! A great time......very blessed and everyone made it to the party, even though they drove up (some of them) at say 5:59! :)

I am off to get Josiah's requested cinnamon rolls from the doughnut factory!

Happy Birthday Joel! I miss you!

Happy Birthday Josiah! I am blessed by you being here!