33 years

Happy Birthday to my Johann

To think...you were a cute, sweet little baby boy, just like Ansel....

a playful, messy, and busy little guy just like Jude....

a smart, sensitive, happy little kindergartner like Gabriella...

(note the top button of your shirt)

In our almost 9 years of marriage, I don't think I've seen this much growth in your life as I have this past year. Truly. You are a pursuer of the Spirit, a lover of the Word, a servant to many, a man striving to be more like Jesus. Thank you for your pursuit of Jesus....it's trickling down to your family who loves you...I see it affecting our  kids, I see it affecting me. You are leading and loving  your family well and I am thankful we have you for an example, the head of our home. You are an incredible person. There is no one in the world who I'd rather live our crazy life with. 

You are a godly, loving and strong father who cherishes his children....correcting them while loving them. I'm so thankful for your desire to teach them, to have fun with them, to play with them, to rough house with them (something I do not do well) and for your patience with them. I know you're saying "I am impatient all the time"...we both are...but I know your heart's desire...they will remember a Papa who was calm, gentle, loving, listening and patient. That's who they will remember because that is who you truly are. 

(With Gabriella...that was a long 30 + hours....)

  (Sleeping with Jude...you were, he wasn't)

( Jude)

  (With Ansel)

I found some images through the years of you and your gardens. Can you believe all your gardens!! It's amazing to see the kids with you in these pictures too! I love that you've grown as a FARMER and have taught our children the art of organic gardening, the importance of growing our own food, the beauty of eating from the work of your hands. You've used your garden as a tool and opportunity to teach your children about Jesus, how he's made all things, makes it rain, brings the sun, grows the sprouts. Thank you for that....thank you for blessing me with all the wonderful veggies. Warkentin CSA.

 (look at the morning glory over growth...you would NEVER let that fly today.)

My favorite Gardener pic of you. Handsome Hunk Harvesting Kale....say that fast 3 times

Happy Birthday dear John-Mark. I love you so much and am proud to be your wifey. How thankful I am to know you, to live life with you, to raise a family with you. Can't wait to see what God will do in this year of your life. So thankful that I get to experience right there with you.