Happy Birthday, Nate!

Today is Nate's 11th birthday! Wow -- how in the world did that happen? He is our BABY, and now he's just 2 years shy of being a teenager! Yikes -- time sure does fly by! He has been at church camp the past 3 days, so we're anxious for him to come home today and we're going to celebrate his life tonight! :) He wanted us to do a 'treasure hunt', so we've hid all his presents throughout the house and he'll be going on a 'treasure hunt' after his choice supper of extra cheesy pizza, followed by caramel cake and vanilla ice cream w/magic shell topping! :)

Nate is such a joy and delight to our family! He is so funny and witty. I love his sense of humor. He amazes us with his 'comebacks', as he's so quick and always has a response/answer! lol He loves life and every new thing he encounters is just a 'new adventure'. He's the type to wake up in the morning, just knowing, "This day was made for ME and I have a life to live!" :)

He is also one of the most thoughtful, caring kids I know. He is really sensitive and genuinely cares about other people and their thoughts and feelings. That blesses me! He will often ask, "How are you doing Mom?" or say, "Mom, you look beautiful!" He will make a great husband some day! lol

He loves to just sit and talk, talk, talk -- preferrably over a Vanilla Frappuccino at Starbucks! lol

He also loves to play board games or be outside throwing his knife at a target. He's 'all boy' and longs to go hunting some day with his Uncle Mark, too! :) One of the things we bought him for his birthday is a bow, arrow, and target and he will be beyond thrilled! He and Steve went to Cabela's and Bass Pro Shop the other day and Nate was in heaven! lol

Although sweet and sensitive, he is also a fierce 'debater'. He loves to sit with Grandpa Tony and debate all the issues of life. He is a 'thinker' and will challenge you on what you believe and why you believe that. He wants to know the 'whys' of everything and really seeks the Truth! We were so excited when we moved to this area and found out they have debate in the elementary school -- he loves that!

He has a sweet heart for the Lord and is all about Truth and isn't easily swayed, but stands for Truth and righteousness!

Anyway, I could go on and on, but suffice it to say, "Nate is GREAT!" and we are so blessed to have him for a son! He truly has been God's gift to us!

Happy Birthday, Buddy! We love you!