Twelve already!

My son is 12 now. My baby. The youngest. Not so much of a little one anymore.
The reality that we do not have small children anymore is plain to see by contrasting our lives with our partners.
No nap times, no board books, beginning readers, everyone takes their own showers, and can actually be left home by themselves.

And now Zachary turns twelve!

And such a gentleman as you can tell!

We love him so much. He is a joy to have for a son. Of course, there are times when we are less than cheerful with each other, and yes, he does get in trouble and have consequences, (can we say no computer time?), but we are very proud of him.

He is a boy that loves people. He enjoys being around others and is compassionate and kind. Even to his sisters!

Each year we can see more and more of the man he is growing into. And we pray for him that Zach would continue to allow the Lord to form him into that man and that he would want to be who God wants him to be.

Since moving to the village, Zach has had the chance to work for another family in the area, general yard work and such. He is proving himself to be a diligent worker as well, which we are proud to see.

We love you Zach, you are a joy and blessing and we are glad you are our son!

P.S. here is a peek at a couple of his presents. Snacks are perfectly appropriate to give as birthday presents. Probably the most common present in fact. Perfect for a boy who wants something to eat every 15 minutes.

Zach’s Thai name is Tawan. That is the product line name of these Lay’s chips, so they are especially appropriate! And yes, the flavor is sweet and sour shrimp soup.

These tidbits are shrimp sticks with ketchup for dipping. They are still in the cupboard.

Mate, one of the girls brought this cute box. Of course the acronym stands for Happy Birthday.

Wanna see the cute note that Met attached to the present?

Isn’t that sweet?