June and July is a busy season for the Bybee family. From late May to early July, we go through a six-week birthday season in which we celebrate the birthday of Sunny, Jackson, Abby Kate, and Joshua. I wrote a birthday post for Sunny, but I decided to combine my thoughts about the children into a single birthday post.

For Abby Kate

You’ve probably heard me say this many times, but I feel the need to always remind you: your name means “father’s pure joy.” And that is what you are. Seeing you always brings me such joy. There are so many things about you that make me proud. I love your concern for others; it shows that your heart is in tune with your Maker’s. You are such a voracious reader, too, and that makes me proud. You are sweet and kind, beautiful both inwardly and outwardly. We’ve joked around that you’ve been a teenager for years because you’ve always been so mature for your age. But as you continue to grow up, I hope you know that you’ll always be my little girl, too. Happy 11th birthday!

For Joshua

You are so strong, stronger than you probably even realize right now. People always say how similar we are and it’s true: we share the same blue eyes, the same love of sports (especially the Cards), the same mischief. But I see so much of your mother alive in you, too: from her servant heart to her drive and initiative. From the very beginning, you have been a ball of energy, a livewire of movement and laughter. I believe God has destined you to do great things in His name and I will always be here to encourage you to live into His call for your life. I am proud of you, Joshua Alan, and I cannot wait to see what God has in store for you. Happy 11th birthday!

For Jackson

You are my headstrong, independent, willful child. And I love you for that! It takes a strong person to be a sibling to twins but you have always been comfortable being your own person. Again, I love you for that! Your passion is one of your greatest strengths. You love to read, to climb, to use your imagination to build Lego’s and draw pictures. You have so many gifts and it excites me to think of the many ways you could use these gifts to bring glory to God. I see your willingness to stand for what you believe, even if it means standing alone. And that makes me so proud of you. One of the best things about my life is that I get to be your Daddy. Happy 8th birthday!

My minions

Abby Kate, Joshua, and Jackson, we love you so much and are so grateful to have you in our lives.

May the upcoming year be filled with the Lord’s favor as you continue to become everything He wants you to be.