Dear Jayce,

You, my dear, are growing up on me. I truly cannot believe that you have hit double digits. It seems like it was only yesterday that I was taking care of you in the NICU. Your NICU stay was a time where it was only you and me. Even though the journey seemed frightening, I am grateful for the extra one-on-one time we had together.

You are so full of life. You are kind, smart, and have the biggest heart. I love your hugs that you freely give every day. I love how much care you have for your dad, your siblings, and me. You show all of us so much love every single day. Your heart overflows with love and care for those around you.

You not only love people so well, but you also love your pets and have a tender heart for all of the creatures you find in nature. Your excitement is contagious as you talk about every type of fish, turtle, rabbit, bird, frog, or toad that you catch. I giggle when I think about all of the creatures I have found in your pockets or even in my bed!

Searching for arrowheads, building forts, hunting, and fishing are just a few of the daily activities you partake in. You are so much like your Pawpaw Tim when it comes to your knowledge and love of nature. You recently caught a fish with your bare hands while kayaking.

When you aren’t exploring the great outdoors, you turn into John Wayne on your fast pony, Shadow. He’s the best, and watching you ride him into the sunset is priceless. You always wished for a pony of your own to ride on the farm. I’m so thankful that wish came true!

Don’t ever lose your enthusiasm for God’s creation. Don’t ever lose your passion for the things that make you happy. Don’t ever lose your love and care for those around you. You are a blessing to us but most importantly God loves you more than we ever could. That reality is so difficult to comprehend because the love we have for you is unending. However, I’m thankful God loves you even more!

The Lord will never leave you or forsake you. Always turn to Him during the highs and lows in your life. His ways are never wrong and will carry you through any circumstance that this life throws your way.

Love Always,

Mom

How old are you? 10

What is your favorite food? Deer jerky 

What do you hope you never have to eat again? Alfredo noodles 

What is your favorite thing to do? Hunt 

What would you like to do when you grow up? A chef or builder 

What is your favorite animal? Dogs 

What makes you happy? Getting hugs 

What is the best memory from when you were 9? Getting my first deer 

What is one thing you’d like to do while you are 10? Get an eight-pointer 

What is your favorite song? Amazing Grace 

Where is your favorite place to eat? The buffet Dad takes me to in Charlottesville 

What is your favorite book? Awaiting Midnight: A Promised Horse (my mom’s book) 

Where would you like to go on vacation? Daufuskie Island, SC 

What would you like the world to know? Jesus Saves

Psalm 104:24 – O Lord, how manifold are thy works! in wisdom hast thou made them all: the earth is full of thy riches.