10!

And then a decade went by.  

Our oldest, our beginning of parenthood, our first son of three, turns 10 today.  It's amazing how quickly a decade can pass by.  It's amazing how much you can learn, how much you can change, in ten years.

Looking back at pictures all I could think was who are those babies, both the literal sweet precious boy and the younger version of his parents whose eyes portray their feelings of love and the doubts, fears, and joys that all mix together when you are gifted a life to raise.

My sweet Micah, you have born the brunt of our many parenting mistakes, pioneering through our inexperience, and preparing a smoother road for your brothers behind you.  I could not have asked for a better boy to take on that role.  

Yes you can be impatient, let your temper be known when someone who looks like you but is much smaller presses one too many buttons.  You have the tendency to be more than a little hard on yourself, expect too much of yourself, a trait your mama knows all too well.

But those many years ago I could never imagined what a joy it would be to have a 10 year old, let alone one as cool as you.  You are a joy to be around, fun to talk to and hang out with to play games, basketball, catch or anything else for that matter.  You have been gifted a heart that genuinely loves others and longs to be in community.  You lead patiently and know how to rejoice with those who are rejoicing.  You passionately pursue the dreams placed within you.  While I would never want to rush the growth, both fun and painful, that you will have to go through, seeing the way God molds you into the man he created you to be will be a treasure no matter the struggle to understand its worth.

Though helpful to be sure, any success in your life has not come from our skill as parents, or from your dedication and hard work.  It has come from the Spirit at work within us, within you.  Just like Hannah did with Samuel, we gave you to the Lord knowing that on our own, even with our best efforts, we could never give you what you truly needed.  While I would never want to rush the growth, both fun and painful, that you will have to go through, seeing the way God continues to mold you into the man he created to be will be an honor.

Whether in school, friendships, future relationships, sports, music, driving me crazy with bottle flipping and tech decks, or just time alone we will be with you, loving you, rooting for you, praying for you, and here for you, no matter what.

So now I give him to the LORD. For his whole life he will be given over to the LORD." And [we still pray that you] worshiped the LORD there [all the days of your life].