The Many Faces of Jack - Jack's 3rd Bday

Okay, or not many faces. He says he is being funny, but he always looks pained - it makes me laugh. Rest assured, he really is a handsome kid, we just don't have any pictures to prove it :)

Yes, you did read correctly, Jack is 3 years old. He had his birthday on Sunday. And wowee, that boy sure loved his birthday.

We did most of the birthday celebrating on the Saturday before. The day started out with killing a second cow. They shot it, then skinned and gutted it. Jack stayed the entire time this time, and Bishop was really great about showing Jack the stomach and the valves in the heart and stuff like that. There are 2 cows hanging in the shop now.

After the exciting morning Jack had some friends over for a quick root beer float party. Afterwards Jack showed all his friends our different animals, yes, including the hanging cows...

After naps we went to Tri-Cities for dinner and a book store fix where Jack purchased a book with his birthday money my Grandma and Grandpa Tanner sent him. Jack has prayed for them every night now at personal prayers.

Jack had cake and present opening with Bill and Katherine on his birthday. Jack got REAL tools - hammer, screwdriver with different bits, wrenches, tape measurer, etc - and a tool box from them. He has been using them non stop. I gave him some scrap wood and some nails and screws and both kids have been making creations quite happily for long periods of time. My mom sent him a toy gun, which he brings with him EVERYWHERE. He likes to go shoot the cows and pigs and birds and dogs. The first time he came back from shooting the pigs I asked if he got them. He said that they were moving around too much. I used to have mixed feelings about toy guns, never wanting my kids to have any. But he sure loves it. And talking to a friend with 2 boys of her own she said that she changed her mind about guns after seeing that they turn every toy or stick into guns anyways, so why fight it?

Mr. Jack, I want you to know that I'm crazy about you. You are so innocent, responsible, and are a very special boy. You love to work and to help. You are SO SMART, and are especially good at problem solving. You come up with solutions very quickly and can figure things out and how they work after a few minutes. Jack, you amaze me. I love seeing you grow into the boy you are. It does make me sad, knowing that you are going to get bigger and have to leave my protection. It makes me sad to know that you are going to have to go into the world and see how people can be and have your beautiful little heart break. I wish I could hold on to you forever, just the way you are. I love you my little workin' man. I pray for you often and hope Heavenly Father protects you when I cannot. Stay beautiful and loving and hard working and faithful. I love you baby. Happy Birthday. And, yes, despite your protests, even 3 year olds still have to give their moms hugs and kisses.