Baby #4 - Zack Ryan

It is such a treasure to see the way God orchestrates our time on this side of heaven to grow us closer to Him. We are humbled that the Lord would use us in any way to carry on His plan and His purposes; and we are so grateful that instead of leaving us where we are, that He is sanctifying us and working out our salvation each and every day. We recognize and acknowledge the Lord's hand in bringing this little boy to life, and while we did not anticipate him, we love him so dearly. What a treasure he is! God is already using this little boy to knit Scott and I closer together as we press into Jesus for reassurance and rest; and as we wrestle with the idol of comfort and at times even resist God's plans in favor of our own, we see His goodness and His faithfulness to not only provide for our needs but to stand firm on His promises. All five if us are waiting in such eager anticipation to meet the newest member of our family ~ Zack Ryan Patterson. {Zack means "remembered by God"}

I am delighted to add another boy to our family. My three boys will be the next generation's leaders. Whether our boys lead the country or a a corporation, within the community or their church, or if their leadership role spans no farther than their home, it is a noble calling. With an eternal perspective in mind we have started training them towards their leadership roles and we are so hopeful for how God will use them to further His kingdom and to love on His people. An excerpt from a book my Dad is reading for seminary tugged at my heart and we plan to "borrow" the author's family value statements for our own, as it seems to clearly depict all that we are working towards in raising our children: 

1. Independence from parents

2. Dependence on God

3. Responsibility for their own actions.

In just 15 short weeks we expect to meet this cute little guy!!! An interesting note - while his body is growing proportionately, his legs are extremely long, measuring almost three weeks ahead! In addition, we think he looks exactly like Gavin!

Left hand with fingers spread apart

Left hand with face buried into left arm/elbow

Two feet, crossed at the ankles

Cutest little face (eye, nose, mouth, chin)