Happy Birthday, Asher! Love, Daddy

Asher-Boy,

I cannot believe that you are three today. You have grown up so quickly. Last night I asked you to consider staying two and you were pretty adamant and excited about being three. How could I hold you back? I wouldn't dare. You are far too passionate, creative, caring and adventurous. It would only be right to allow these things to grow right alongside and inside of my precious son. I'm thankful that of all the talents and gifts that God has blessed me with that he relented to give me the ability to stunt your growth. For I would surely, and selfishly, keep you two for awhile longer. It was far from terrible. It was truly delightful and a joy.

However, I do think that I will take up some serious weight training so that, as long as you would allow, I could...
continue to fly you to bed,
keep the upper-hand in our wrestling matches and sword fights,
pin you down and tickle you,
throw you up high in the air and watch your smile on the way down, and
carry you in my arms for long stretches of time.

It is such a pleasure to watch you serve and love your Momma and your MitTwayne. You are such a considerate leader. I love how you are always longing to join in and help Momma or me with whatever task we are doing — and how you're so upset when you cannot do so. You are so faithful and so generous.

I pray that all of these good things that God has started in you will take root in the good news of what Jesus has done for you and will grow to bring more glory to God and more joy to those he puts in your life. I know it has mine.

Thank you for agreeing to still be my little boy despite your plans to proceed as a three year old. You are so sweet. I love you.

You are my blessing.

Daddy