January 17, 2003.

Today is Tommy's birthday.

I'm sitting here at the keyboard with a lump in my throat. We looked through his scrapbook last night and it seems like the years were just seconds. It makes me realize how short life really is.

In honor of Tommy, I have created a little picture walk down memory lane.


Tommy has been looking forward to this day since February of LAST year. He has such a tender heart and never likes to see anyone angry or upset. He always has something to say to cheer you up! I love you to pieces, Tommy!!

He completes our family. Ricky is the top bun, us girls are the meat, tomato, and cheese, and Tommy is the bottom bun. :D

Such a cool dude. :P

He loves to explore. He spends hours in our woods and then comes in with a new collection of rocks or brings us all out to see a bird's nest. Gotta love it.

Tommy is one of those people who dresses in themes. One day, he's a cowboy:

The next, he's an Indian:

He lost his first tooth last year!!

Who's muscles are bigger?? :P

Always daddy's big helper.

My lil' buddy.

People say we're look-a-likes. I love this boy so much!!

Ahoy maties!!

He gets his fashion tastes from me.

Rockstars!! [instruments including mom's 30 year old, broken dulcimer and a lap harp. Haha!]

He loves to read with Ricky...

Ride 'em, cowboy!

Dad is such a good sport. Tommy wants to follow in his footsteps.

Turning 3!! Man, it seems like yesterday!!

Helping me "serve the tables". (aka: playing kitchen with mom and dad. :P)

We love our clown!

He was always the artistic one of the boys. :D I love it!

Aaaawwww.

Such a stud muffin! {Playing "wedding"}

He laughs in the face of danger.

He already loved to climb trees at age 2!!

He loves his big brother.

Holding his baby doll, affectionately named "Rachel." The poor boy, he never stood much of a chance against baby dolls with 3 older sisters. :)

turning 2!

Happy Birthday, Tommy!

You keep us smiling. We love you, eight year old!!

xoxoxo,

Your sisters