My 8 year old son....

Mattox,
I can't believe 8 years ago you made me a mom. It has been the best 8 years of my life. I honestly can't believe God gave me a son like you. You are such a good boy. You are smart, kind, generous, loving, responsible, a good friend, and an excellent brother. You are also impulsive and a bit silly at times. You love to be the center of attention. You love playing with friends, Pokemon, Beyblades, and basketball. You are just an all around awesome kid. There isn't much else to write.

Dad and I could not be more proud of you. You do great in school, sports, and love Jesus. So far, you have made great friend choices. I know God has big plans for you. I pray you continue to keep your eyes on Him. I pray you learn to say, "yes" to Him like you do with us. I pray His hand will protect you and you will grow up to be a strong man of God.

Happy 8th Birthday buddy.

Love,
Mom

Sam turns 6!

Sam,

       Happy 6th Birthday. I can't believe I don't have a 5 year old anymore. Where is the time going? As you get older, I learn more and more about what is going on in that head of yours...and there is A LOT GOING ON IN THAT HEAD. This year has been an amazing year. You are completely in love with Mrs. Carlson, your Kindergarten teacher. She was amazing and gracious and pretty, so you have good taste. This year, you have grown so much. You are smart, funny, kind, sensitive, VERY TALKATIVE, happy, and creative. This year you quit gymnastics and started wrestling. You played your first season of basketball and second season of T-ball. You enjoy being around others, but you don't take sports too seriously. In fact, I think you would rather not compete. You love to perform. You just started taking piano, and you seem to like it. You love to sing and dance. I love hearing you perform. It is completely adorable. 

       Sam, you love Mattox. You follow him around everywhere. You quickly learn everything about what he is interested in and talk about it constantly. You both are really into Pokemon and Bayblades right now. You are best friends.  

       You absolutely love getting lost in stories. You fall asleep almost every night listening to an audiobook. You just listened to and watched Harry Potter for the 1st time. It was fun to watch you enjoy that.

       I love you so much, Sam. You love me so well and offer me so much grace. You are going to do great things when you get older. I am not sure what, but they will be great. God has His hand on your little heart, and you seem to be growing in your walk with the Lord. I hope 6 treats you well. I hope that I soak in all the sweetness you offer me and those around you. You are a true treasure.

Love Mom.