Monday, May 18, 2009

A Decade of Delight

I'm a week late, as usual, but guess what! That's right, my little baby boy Nathaniel had his tenth (yes, I did say tenth) birthday on May 12. It is mind-blowing to really stop and think about everything that means -- he's been part of our family for 10 years now. I've been a mother for 10 years . . . a decade doing the job I love more than anything else in the world.



What he wanted for his birthday was to have a few friends from school and church over for a small party and movie night. I must admit my hesitation because I stress about everything, and we live in a tiny house that barely holds us. However, with his good looks and charm, Nathaniel was able to convince me. He invited his 5 best buddies over for pizza, cake, and a movie. Of course for him, the highlight was showing off his favorite birthday gift -- his new bedroom, which he now inhabits all by himself. Talk about hog heaven.





A few gifts, including some mission-fund cash from Aunt Mel that he was a little surprised to find in this book.


Readying the cake. Can you believe all those candles?





Got 'em all with one breath!



Joseph gives him some applause.



The party was Saturday night. For his actual birthday, we took a trip to St. George and Zion National Park. More on that to come.

What can I say about my boy that I haven't already said over and over in this forum? I'm crazy about him. He's incredibly smart and conscientious, and I'm always amazed by him. To quote a great movie, (Little Man Tate): "It's not just what he knows; it's what he understands." He's sensitive and kind, and I could not be more proud.
Some days he will walk into the room, and I will literally be taken back by how tall and grown up he is. I keep seeing flashes of the future, of his high school graduation, of kissing him goodbye as he leaves for his mission, of him as a father one day. It's sad and wonderful at the same time.
Happy birthday, son. I have loved you for eons, and that will never end.

6 comments:

Matt said...

Who was it that got the shot of nathaniel RIGHT when he caught a glimpse of the money in his book? Nice job!! That was perfect timing. I especially like his laser eyes scrutinizing his dollar bill, checking how much he got. :)

Becca said...

He is a good looking kid! I'm surprised too that he is already 10. He's not going to be a kid much longer. Sad and happy at the same time--I can understand that.

Happy Birthday, Nathaniel! I'm clapping for you too! Hurray, Nathaniel!

Becca said...

p.s. I love the picture on the header. Will you email it to me? dearheart (dot) becca at gmail or the one you have used before.

Shanana said...

Our Nathaniel is about to turn 14...Which is freaking me out because that means he can start going to dances! YIKES!

Great pictures, Jules.

marmee said...

I sure wish I could have been there to celebrate your birthday with you, Nathaniel. You are the most special boy and I am SO proud of you!
I remember the moment you were born as if it were yesterday. I,too, can't believe that you're 10years old.
I love you!
Marmee

Jen said...

I can't believe he is 10. I'm getting old.