Nine!

It's been 9 years since this boy made his debut into the world! My sweet second born has always been a display of sweet and feisty, active and calm, loving and fiery. Whatever Colin does, he does it 100%. 

 Colin is loyal and kind, athletic and competitive, funny and silly. He defends his friends, helps out those around him and will compete with anyone...doing anything.

 Colin's favorite thing to do is play soccer. He would play every minute of every day. He loves to watch his favorite team, Tottenham Hotspurs, play and watches most games. He always reports to me on how the recess soccer game went...before he tells me how the actual school day went.

Despite the first soccer report of the day, Colin enjoys school and loves to read. He likes to spend time researching for his writing projects (usually about soccer) and is very detailed in his work. He is looking forward to 4th grade and his final year in elementary.

 Colin is a fantastic brother. He was the first sibling to bond with Maggie...even before we brought her home. He was actively engaged in our whole adoption process and their sweet attachment has grown into a beautiful friendship.

He also loves to be with his big brother, playing hours and hours of soccer, video games and general rough housing. He also enjoys being the older boss of Macy :) 

Dedication is a word that I would use to describe Colin in all things. He is deeply dedicated to soccer and his team. His focus belies his age. The picture above he is writing out his fitness goals for the month while watching the Premier League.  He also funnels that same dedication to school and his family. I am not sure where that laser focus comes from, but it is very much a part of who Colin is.

He is also one of the silliest and funniest kids around. His 3rd grade teacher told me he was the funniest kid she had ever met and that he made her laugh every day in school. He has always made us laugh with his dry sense of humor, but I am glad that he is starting to show the rest of the world that silly, fun side of him!

Happiest Birthday, Colin.  We love you so much!

We are so excited to watch you grow! 

"I ran out of fingers"

Today my baby is 11.

 He told me that he ran out of fingers now. No longer can he use both hands to tell his age.

Time doesn't hold still, just like Jack.

Jack is always on the the go and prefers to be doing something at all times.

His interests are varied and he participates in many different things!

Jack worked extra hard this year in soccer and futsal and was able to make a high level Michigan Jaguars club team this year.

We are so proud of the determination that you showed and the hard work that you put in.

We can't wait to see you play this fall!

Jack also worked hard with his Destination Imagination team and went to State and qualified for Globals. I love that he uses his brain and his athletic ability.  Jack loved his DI team and is looking forward to next season.

Jack is the best big brother and all of the kids look up to him.

He also is always, always up for a laugh.

Life is never dull with you around, my son.

You keep us on our toes, and usually laughing!

You love to write, and I hope that is a discipline that you continue to work hard on. Everyone always looks forward to your handmade cards! Hallmark should definitely hire you!

You love to be with your friends and we pray that you are a leader among them.

We pray that you stand firm in your convictions and show kindness to those around you.

Stand up for the lonely or ignored. Advocate for those who need a strong voice.

We love that you love your family and your friends.

We love your silly faces, your Dad jokes and your kind heart.

Happy 11th Birthday, my son.

You made us Mom and Dad, you challenge and inspire us.

We love you!