To My Almost 11 Year Old

 Owen, tomorrow you will be eleven years old and I just can't get over how glad I am that you were born. It is such a fun ride, watching you grow and change and become who you are.

You bring so much laughter into our house. You have a quiet and quick wit that only those who know you best are aware of. You come up with the weirdest names for Lucy. You still check stats and recaps of the biggest games in sports every morning. You love Dude Perfect, fishing, and playing football with your friends.

You are crazy talented but so chill about it. During the All Star season this summer, you were clutch at the plate, even batting ten for ten in one of the tournaments. Then after your team fought through district, region, and state, finally winning the entire Braves Country 10u League Championship, you walked off the field and promptly lost your championship ring. (Don't worry, I found it.) In fact, you are famous for losing your rings and trophies, and it's one of the things I love about you. You just don't care that much about the awards; you live for the game itself.

You are not just an amazing athlete and at times a crazy and energetic kid, but you are also a deep thinker and ask big questions. (Don't be afraid of those questions, Bud. Seek truth and you will find it.) You have a strong conscience and I never have to wonder if you are telling the truth. I'm so grateful for that. You've started piano lessons this year and have already begun composing melodies and lyrics of your own.

O, every morning I breathe a prayer that you will grow to be a man who fears the Lord, a man of courage and wisdom and humble confidence. At almost eleven years old, you are already growing into that man. I love life with you, Bud, and can't wait to see what the Lord does in your life this year.

Happy birthday, my almost eleven year old!