Derek turned 18 last week. How we got here so quickly, I do not know. What seized my heart for a moment was the realization that this would be his last birthday celebrated at home before leaving for college, wherever that will be.

The celebration began a week before his birthday, as we gathered with cousins for a quintuple birthday party! Three Gieres and two Johaniks were sung to!

Most of the cousins went for a dip in the pool while Derek held down the condo fort.

We ate birthday pancakes on the morning of his birthday; though they had to be eaten quite early due to school and other various demands of the day.

The football game on the Friday after his big day resulted in a win! Early on, the sky put on a spectacular show.

We, the fan club, were happy for the team.

The seniors gathered for a couple pics.

It’s neat to see how they’ve come together over the past four years.

Later that weekend, we had yet another celebration with more family,

with more candles to blow out.

The munchkin fan club looked on.

I love how Derek is maturing in his faith and love for God. He remains teachable, with a compassion for others. I can’t wait to see how God uses him going forward!

My son, if your heart is wise,
My own heart also will be glad;
And my inmost being will rejoice
When your lips speak what is right. (Proverbs 23:15-16)