12

twelve. how did that happen? because last time i looked, you had at least 3 nooks in your hands and one in your mouth, you were playing with or watching thomas the train, and sleeping in our bed. ugh. 

but i adore the awesome boy you are growing up to be. so, for a new tradition, 12 things i love about you:

1-your awesome, witty, sarcastic sense of humor. don't ever lose it. 

2-your faith in our Almighty God and your strength and confidence to profess and live that faith at what can be a tough age to do just that. 

3-your sweet, tender heart. especially for those who may not be treated kindly by others because they are different in some arbitrary way. 

4-your brain power. simply amazing. never stop thinking outside the box...and daddy's friends will always count on you for any kind of sports stat or news. :)

5-your artistic, creative abilities. incredible. 

6-your athletic ability and your love of the game...almost ANY game. i love to watch you play. 

7-the way you laugh so hard you stop making noise and tears roll down your face. 

8-most of the issues we battle now will serve you well in the future. so it's a love/hate thing really. 

9-that you are your father's son. i know it means you will be an amazing, wonderful man...just like him. 

10-your unexpected hugs and i love you's. i hope they never stop. 

11-you still call me mama. see #10

12-you give me hope that mostly i'm doing ok at this parenting thing ;)

happy birthday j man. love you so.