The First Day of The Life Of Ernie.....As a 10 (yes TEN) Year Old

I can still hardly believe it, but my son turned ten a few weeks ago.  

We had many celebrations, as per usual around here.  But I thought I would start with the account from his actual big day. 

We started off the day with the usual Dee's donut breakfast in the birthday chair. 

(And don't you worry, he did NOT miss his 6 am workout.  In fact, he woke his Dad up to go even earlier so he made sure they had enough time.  Even birthdays do not warrant varying a schedule for this OCD schedule oriented kid.  And yes, he has ALWAYS been that way.  From day 1.) 

 Caleb was very proud that he had bought him a gift he really thought he would love with his own money. 

After homework (once again, his routine always comes first :)!) his dad met us at his favorite restaurant for dinner.  

Olive Garden.  My boys love this place. They eat at least 2 baskets of bread sticks themselves. 

Attempt 1 at a picture:

A little closer, they are both looking at the camera: 

And we Finally have a winner:

After dinner, he had a basketball game.  It was a great day.  We got him a kindle.  His reaction was typical Ernie, and I LOVED it!  He was genuinely surprised and then said, "I have been looking at these and hoped that I would be able to get one someday, but never dreamed I would EVER get one!"

I love so much about this kiddo.  One of my favorite things about him is his graciousness.  He is truly grateful and one of his best qualities is being able to express his gratitude.  Some of the other qualities that I have seem blossom over this year:

-His desire to be successful.  His drive is remarkable for such a young kid.

-Love of learning. He thinks deeply and asks a lot of questions. 

-Desire to have good influences.  His ability to recognize desirable qualities in his associations amazes me.  He has talked to me many times about about how he has realized good friends are extremely important.

-Responsibility.  (ex: He had a pack meeting for scouts a few months ago.We were really busy that day, and I just REALLY didn't want to go.  We had about 10 min to eat before we had to leave, and so I just mentioned that it may be easier to just sit this one out.  He thought for a minute and then said, "Mom, these things are really important.  The leaders work really hard and we learn a lot from scouts.  I really should be there."  Yep, he is for real!)

- Innate ability to recognize good. 

-Sensitivity. He is so aware of others around him.  Especially his family.  A few weeks ago he was snuggling with me (which I will take as long as I can!) and he got a little emotional and said, "I couldn't imagine a better family.  I really am so blessed mom." 

What he will probably never truly understand is that I am the one that is blessed.  

I could go on and on about this remarkable child.  I am constantly amazed by his depth and his maturity. He is far wiser that any child should be at his age. 

Yes, I am very blessed.