To My Almost 10 Year Old

 Owen. I really like you at almost 10 years old.

You are one of the funniest people I know. You slide your quiet sarcasm and quick wit into conversations and leave me laughing every day. You can be wild and crazy with your friends but also treasure quiet time at home. You ask me every day to play football with you because I am the best quarterback in the county.

You are one of the most talented people I know. You can do anything you set your mind to. Tennis, baseball, basketball, golf...Your coaches always comment on your skill, coordination, and humble attitude. Or how about running 10 miles with your dad in honor of your tenth birthday? Yes, you did that too. 10 MILES. Buddy, you know that's not normal, right? And yet you acted like it was no big deal. That's you - hit a home run, make a crazy infield play, drive a golf ball 155 yards, go on a 10 mile run - and then walk off like nothing even happened.

You are one of the deepest people I know. You have a philosophical mind and a tender heart. You read poetry and write songs. You love to read about real stories - athletes, missionaries, historical leaders. I treasure your questions because I know they always come with much thought behind them.

You are one of the most sincere people I know. You are who you are and you don't pretend to be anyone but you. You love fishing and you hate watching sad movies. You make friends with old guys at sporting events. You wear a baseball jersey every day and you love picking which radio channel to listen to in the van.

Bud, you are a joy. I love watching you grow up and pray every day for you to be a man after God's own heart, strong and courageous and wise. I love watching you become who you are.

Happy birthday, my sweet almost 10 year old!