Hunter…through the year 2015. (Well, all but one. I had to put the one of him jumping out of an airplane in this.)
“This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” Psalm 118:24
There are countless reasons to celebrate today, but one is the nearest and dearest to my heart.
First of all, today is the first day of spring. When I think of the first day of spring new beginnings come to my mind. New beginnings brings about a freshness. And being spring, brings about much beauty and a landscape full of character through color.
Secondly, two extremely special men in my life were born on this day. My Grandpa West was born this day. I thought he had hung the moon. He was handsome, innovative, and resourceful. He passed away back in the late 1980s, but I will always remember his smile, quiet manner, and the feeling of protection when I was around him.
These very same characteristics that describe my grandpa have been passed down to my eldest. Hunter epitomizes my Grandpa West. Not only do they share the same mannerisms, but the same birthday.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, HUNTER WAYNE SHUFF!!
Much like spring, today is a day of new beginnings. Goodbye teen years, hello twenties. I pray that you, Hunter, will wake each day with the gusto of “today is a new day, and the Lord made it just for me”. Each morning we wake, it is the prospect to start fresh and appreciate what our Heavenly Father has gotten us through and for what He has forthcoming for us.
Much like I adored my Grandpa West, I treasure Hunter.
Hunter, I can’t wait to see what God has planned for you in life. I love you. Seek and keep Christ first in your life. Honor Him with your whole heart. Will you make mistakes? You bet! But please learn and grown from them. Cherish God, your family, your friends, and yourself. Surround yourself with others who are encouragers in life, and be one yourself. Be selfless. Be honest, humble, and kind. Use your manners, and be respectful. But I’m telling ya…when you love the Lord with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength you will discover that everything else will fall into place. Bring glory to God in all you do. Enjoy life. Pray about everything. God’s got great plans for you. While you are out fishing and hunting, enjoy soaking up The Son in the sun. I love, love, love you! Always, mom.
“Love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength.’[a]31 The second most important command is this: ‘Love your neighbor the same as you love yourself.’[c] These two commands are the most important.” Mark 12:30-31
“Don’t worry about anything, but pray and ask God for everything you need, always giving thanks for what you have.” Philippians 4:6
“Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” Matthew 23:12
“Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior.32 Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.” Ephesians 4:31-32
I pray that you will enjoy soaking up The Son every moment of each day. –Stephanie
Please click here to subscribe so you won’t miss a journal entry. THANK YOU!!!
Don’t forget to share your photos of sunrises and sunsets on social media and use the hashtag #soakinguptheson.
Follow me on Instagram @stephanie_shuff
Baby, that was beautifully worded. I have thought Hunter has Daddy’s characteristics. He loves to tinker. Thanks for your words of wisdom.