We stick close

"There is a friend that sticks closer than a brother" Proverbs. 18:::24

I am blessed to have such a friend as that, and today is her birthday!

We became friends with Jennifer and Daniel almost nine years ago when we joined our Sunday School class. Back then it was called a Nearly/Newlywed class, and we were nearlywed's and Jennifer and Daniel were newlywed's! They even came to our wedding and had a sweet newborn baby at home. Looking back, I am so thankful that they were able to be a part of such a special day in our lives.

Our friendship has grown so much over the years and she is one of the dearest friends I have. I really am so thankful for her and don't know what I would do without her in my life.

I hope that Jen won't hate me for digging out some of these old pics =) We have made so many wonderful memories over the years. There have been bike trips...(that I will NEVER do again. And, btw...why am I the only goober with a helmet on?)

A mission trip to Cuba...

Beach Trips...

Jennifer and Daniel struggled with secondary infertility for years, and I can remember pouring my heart out in prayer, pleading for the Lord to bless them with a baby. On this particular beach trip in July of 2004, I remember us walking down the beach and talking about babies and what they would name a little girl or a little boy. We talked about Daniel Hayes for a boy. I will never forget the day after we returned from this trip as the day when Jen told me that God had answered all of our prayers and she was pregnant!!! Daniel Hayes was on his way!!!

This boy was prayed for by so many people for so long!

I know without a doubt that she is now pleading for the Lord to work a miracle in our lives and bless us with a baby. She challenges me to grow in my walk with the Lord, and encourages me with scriptures that she prays over us.

She's also my alto buddy...

My South 21, game night, The Office, hanging out, shopping, accountability buddy and so much more. She's the kind of friend that will call me up to ask if I've made dinner plans (knowing that I haven't!) because she made extra and offers to feed us...love her for that too!

Beach Trip '07...

I love this family!!

Jen, I hope that your birthday is wonderful! You deserve a day as special as you are. You mean so much to so many people...you are a wonderful wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend. I am so thankful that the Lord placed you in my life and I know that in you I have found a friend forever! I look forward to our families growing old and gray together and having just as much fun as we do now! You are such a blessing to me and I love you!

Happy Birthday!!!!