Since the moment in that german delivery room where AJ and I first met, I have been proud of him. AJ was born with his eyes wide open. I took this to mean that he would see the world as it really was. From the very start he impressed me.

Now, as he enters his 12th year, I couldn't be more proud! I saw him at his soccer game yesterday and I realized he isn't a little boy anymore. In his last year as a 'tween' I find I've been robbed of my little AJ, the little boy I could hold in my arms and  protect from the realities of life. More and more I have to trust that he has learned what I have taught him. He's a young man now. My world is a little sadder as I miss the boy, but a little bright also as I get to know the young man.

Now, as I let AJ venture forth in a world that I can no longer protect him from, I turn my sights on putting the finishing touches on Marky, who is also growing faster than I would prefer.

Please check out the AJ's 12th Birthday gallery and see how AJ celebrated his last 'tween' celebration!

HJ