Happy Birthday Judah!!!

Say hello to the little madman through the first twelve months!!

Newborn

Just under 1 month

2 months

3 months

4 months

5 months

6 months

7 months

8 months

9 months

10 months

11 months

& ONE YEAR OLD TODAY!!!!

(in the stylings of high school yearbooks everywhere, I commissioned Rachel to write a "proud parents" note to our more temperate madman. I think she does it justice.)

Judah Clayton Nimon, (it's true, we did slip Rachel's maiden name in)

Happy Birthday, sweet Judah! I can hardly believe we've had you in our family for a whole year already. From the moment you amazed us with your quick (3 and 1/2 hour) birth, you established yourself as a trailblazer and continue to blow us away. I think you see the world as a big area to explore fearlessly, sometimes giving your mama a heart attack as she watches! You learn far too many things, good and bad, from your big brother, and you have caught on quickly as to how to defend yourself.

We are proud of your walking skills and love to put shoes on you to see you toddle around! (and your daddy especially loves when, without warning, you unceremoniously dump yourself in a heap!) You love to imitate sounds and can say 'hi there' and 'thank you'. Music is a favorite for all of us and you are no different. When we sing praises, you respond by clapping, walking in circles, dancing, and singing along-- and we love it! And your big open-mouthed kisses! There is nothing quite like a Judah kiss-- and we've got the slobber marks to prove it. :)

We're pretty sure you were born with a twinkle in your eye, as your ornery side peeks through every now and then. Your daddy and I laugh often as we watch you 'play' with us by being naughty with a big smile on your face.

Oh and the drama! The way you throw yourself on the floor screaming and rolling around is unique to you in this family... we love your acting skills. (We suspect that Elijah loves them less when you try to get him in trouble with them, but you are nonetheless quite talented.)

Your daddy and I are so thankful to God for blessing us with you. We pray that you will grow up to be a courageous man who knows God and shows others His love. We are so proud of you and can't wait to see what the next year of your life will bring.

Love,

Mom and Dad