My Young Man

These pictures just blow me away every time I look at them. I have so much to post and share but I have been telling everyone about these pictures and I need to share these first.

I took these of Kyle when we were at Whitney and BJ's for the 4th. It helped to have a nice backyard as the backdrop. But personally I think the subject matter is exceptional! He looks so mature and sweet, both of which are very true to life.

Kyle is truly an incredible kid growing into a very fine young man. And I am not just saying this because I am his mom. I am going to have to share some of the comments we have received about Kyle over the last couple of years and I am really just trying to convey how uniquely special he is and not to be braggy. But I can't put into words myself how to really describe him, sometimes it comes from others better. My best description is that he has a very deep soul, one that has its own presence.

From his Sunday School teacher last year, "he is a delightful young man with a deep spiritual soul."

From his basketball coach, "your son is an amazing boy. I have never met a boy his age who is such a joy to be around."

From the assistant coach, "we discuss our scripture lesson and Kyle asks questions that are very deep that even I as an adult have to step back and think about them. He is a fine young man. You should be very proud." I am.

From his basketball coach 2 years ago (a couple) "you can tell that God already has a plan for him. These is something very special about him. He is genuinely supportive and friendly. When we think about having kids we want children like Kyle." The ultimate compliment in my opinion.

From his scout leaders, "Kyle is so happy and helpful."

From everyone who meets him - he is so happy and cheerful. His nickname at Karate is "Smiley"

He makes me so proud to be a mom. He makes me want to be a better mom and give him every opportunity under the sun. He is everything I could ask for in a son and more. What a wonderful brother he is to all of his siblings.

To Ethan he is a best friend, buddy, confident. They spend almost all of their time together. To Lindy he is a true match in pleasing others and being laid back, they click. They are two peas in a pod. To Paige, he is the fun playful big brother, one who always helps her out. To Erin, he is everything. She idolizes him and for good reason. He would do anything for all of them especially this little girl.

He is the most empathetic person I know, anywhere. I think he truly feels others pain whether it be emotional or physical. He is confident, caring, honest, genuine, thoughtful, intelligent, enthusiastic, thankful, and so lovable. One thing comes to mind to explain him. When he is sick with a cold, fever etc. I do my mom duty and try to make him feel better. A little Motrin, juice, pillows, TV remote etc. Over and over he thanks me, thank you for taking care of me mom. Once he is feeling better he will come find me, give me a big hug and tell me thank you for taking care of him. Like I have done him a big favor! Little does he know how much joy it brings me to take care of such a special boy.

I can't believe in a few weeks he will be 13 years old! It is a pleasure everyday to teach him and hang out with him.

I still remember the exact second he was born and we found out he was a boy. I was so excited! A little boy, I had no idea what to do with a boy as I had only grown up with girls and only babysat girls. I did not care if I had a boy or a girl but always thought it would be so nice to have an older brother for other children. He is truly a dream come true.

I love you Kyle.

My question to all of you is which picture do you like better. I can't decide which one to enlarge and frame! Help! I love them both.