NINE

Today, our first born, turned 9. It's kind of a big deal. One, it is the last birthday in the single digits. Two, he has reached the half-way point to being considered an adult. Three, this means his early childhood years are coming to a close. Wow, makes it sound sad, doesn't it?

As cliche as it is, I am not sure where the time went. As I told my niece (some else could have said it, too, I don't know) when she had her son, "The days and nights seem to last forever, but the years fly by." It has and it does and it will.

While, I know the innocence of childhood will soon begin to fade away; there will be new, amazing, and exciting adventures waiting. There will be mission trips, youth programs, and in the not so far future, a driver's license. We've given you roots, now you'll get to try your wings.

Nine Things We Love About You:

1. Your love for Jesus, family, and friends.

2. Your sense of humor.

3. Your ability to do cool math tricks.

4. Your talent for quoting movie lines.

5. Your kindness and empathy.

6. Your cravings for spaghetti, Mexican, and "Sumway."

7. Your thoughtfulness in giving mommy flowers and Daddy anything Cowboys.

8. Your smile when your sneaky.

9. Your love and enjoyment of life.

AND ONE TO GROW ON-

10. The way you look when you know we're proud of you.

Happy Birthday, Calen! Love, Mom and Dad