Happy 10th Birthday Eli

 Eli,

It's the end of the month. I am a little late writing this. When you turned 10, we were skiing in WV. I can't believe you are 10. It's been a great year for you. Lots of growth and maturity. Ups and Downs. I have watched you grow and change before my eyes this year. 

This time last year, you were still going to Western Union Elementary School. With about 4 months left in the school year, we pulled you and put you at Weddington Christian Academy. You became really good friends with Michael Potter. At the end of the school year you did a project on Henry Ford and you dressed up like him. You got the class award for leadership. 

Last summer, we didn't do much because we were saving up for Mattox's car. We didn't go to the beach or anything. However, towards the end of the summer, you started at Tech Fall with Madi. You struggled at first to climb the rope. By the end of the summer, you had it. You took the fall off of baseball to wrestle. It was good for you. You got faster and stronger and tougher. You are a decent wrestler. You are smart and learn moves quickly. It has been fun to watch you do something new.

This winter, you wrestled for Parkwood and just started playing basketball. It will be exciting to see you play baseball this spring after having some time off. It has been almost a whole year since you have played baseball. You are a great little player and you seem to love it. 

Eli, you are a special boy. You love people well (when you are being other's focused). You are fun and cute and everyone likes you. You are curious and empathetic. I pray, more than anything, that you always say "yes" to God's plan on your life. He has given you many gifts. I am so thankful I get to be your mom and I get a front row seat to it all. I will always be here for you!

Here's to another great trip around the sun. 

Love-Mom