Thirteen years ago we were blessed with our first child. We named him Hunter. He and his sister (who came a year later) have filled our lives with tremendous joy and pride.

Today that little boy took another step toward manhood. He became a teenager It’s a strange and exciting time. Every now and then we still see that little boy pop out again with some goofy move, silly prank or just his endless laughter. Yet, mostly now you see the man beginning to form with all the seriousness and contemplation of life and I realize just how little time he has left under our roof.

He’s too old to hold my hand and hugs in public aren’t always met with the enthusiasm they once were. He’s growing up and adding interests and other people into his life. I am no longer the focus of his attention like I used to be and that’s okay.

I still get the “I love you”s and I am reminded every now and then that I am still his best bud.

I pray that’s always the case.

Happy Birthday Hunter!