Dear James, 

Happy 16th birthday! Did I really just type that number? How can it be that you are a 6’4, 170 pound sophomore in high school? Really? Please explain how you have changed overnight.

Most people don’t even recognize you unless they start a conversation. It is easy to figure out that you are the same ol’ kind and compassionate James once you start talking though. You have a heart of gold. 

I have witnessed you go from an almost ten pound newborn who wanted to be carried around until he was well over three years old to a strong man of God who doesn’t mind to still hug on his mom every once and awhile. Thank you for the hugs and all the wisdom you share. You keep all of us on the straight and narrow. And for that, I am grateful. I will love you until the end of time and then some.

Love Always, 

Mom

Psalm 28:7 – The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him.