Happy Birthday Eli!

Five years ago today, the world welcomed Eli Marshall Parks. He's the youngest of my sister Suz's three kids. You've heard of stay-at-home moms. Well, he's been a stay-at-home kid.

With her work schedule, she's had to find a babysitter for him only a couple of days a week. She's been blessed to find a sweet little lady in Buford that they call Maw-Maw (even though she's not related) to keep him. She keeps a few other children, too, but whenever possible, Eli prefers to stay at home. He's a "player." From the time his feet hit the floor until they reluctantly crawl into bed, he's playing. Whether it was Thomas the Train, sports of any kind, frogs, lizards, cars and trucks or just simply laying in the floor and getting in the most contorted positions, he's always busy.

His imagination is incredible, and has always been. Eli was three when this picture at the beach was taken. We were taking a walk on the beach and we were going to place an order for sub sandwiches to pick up after our walk. We had our orders written down on a small piece of paper. He wanted to carry the piece of paper with him on our walk because it was his "map." I think I'll always remember that. I know I'll always remember this picture. It's one of my very favorites.

He's five years old today. He's a sweet boy. Smart as a whip with a fierce determination. His mama is tearful that her baby is growing up too fast. I know how she feels. One chapter closes. A new chapter opens. Oh, the places he'll go!!

Love you so much Eli! Happy Birthday!