for our fourteener

 
Welp. The last year has been interesting. I've had an up-close slow-motion view of my boy turning into a man. It's pretty amazing to witness. You think about food constantly. You've grown 4 1/8 inches over the last year--that's a half inch every 6 weeks. You've grown taller than me (and your older sister--but we are NOT going to talk about that. Like ever.) Your voice is really low, maybe even headed for bass singing. 

This is a fun stage. You have a lot of friends in the junior high group, but you can also talk to older kids and adults. And I've noticed more of a friendship between you and Big Sis--a good thing after your history of 1st born vs 2nd born battles over the years.

Other tidbits from this phase--getting braces, scootering around on your electric scooter, getting excited about biking, and did I mention the eating? Also you'll be in a BIG public high school next year. (Whew! Big sigh.)

You do seem to be growing in wisdom and are overall receptive to our advice and teaching. Even though you don't love to read, you have a detailed and organized brain and seem to make good decisions (mostly). You know how to get along with others, but I've also noticed a bigger desire for making your own decisions.

I don't know what's ahead for you, Bud. But I do know the Lord has special plans just for you, and He is working that out in your life right now. Our prayer is that you are furiously seeking God's wisdom. This troubled world has become less receptive to godly biblical living. May you stand out in a good way--for the glory of God. And may your heart's desire to please Him in all you do.

We love you, Calvin.