He's 11!

Today my Max is 11.  Each year he gets older, I can't believe we are here at this stage.  He is a great kid and we are proud of all the good choices he makes.  Today, however, was swim team divisionals - an ALL DAY ordeal.  I felt so bad that we'd spend most of the day waiting in the hot sun.  In some way, I had to recognize his birthday so I asked the announcer to announce it.  Well let's just say Max was totally and utterly embarrassed and not at all thrilled with his mom - thus the upset look.  None of my kids (or myself for that matter) really like the limelight - so no announcements in the future.  The kids swam (although Brett opted out and enjoyed watching and eating treats) and did well overall, but boy were we all glad when our part of the meet was done!

Max raced home and actually had time to read his sign.  And being who he is, he immediately shared some of his candy with his little brother - yes, he is wonderful that way.  Max set the scheduled for the rest of the day - a quick swim, off to the movies to see "Brave", and then to Outback steakhouse for dinner.  Seeing as how I had gotten back from girls camp the day before, his birthday was less organized than I like but luckily Max was happy anyway.  We rounded out the night with presents and he was thrilled with his mini fridge, all his IOU's for his new bedroom (he and Cade will be switching soon), and his basketball signed by Larry Bird and Michael Jordan!!!  

Max is such a good kid.  Seriously, he is my right hand man as we juggle activities and the kids - I couldn't do without his help.  When Max is happy, our whole home is happier.  Hard to believe my fussy, fussy baby has turned into this!  I am so glad.

11 Things I Love About Max

1. He is kind

2. He cares about others and their feelings

3. He asks great questions and is fun to talk with
4. He is a great brother

5. He is smart and tries hard

6. He's got a good sense of humor and is FUNNY
7. He does hard things even when he doesn't always want to and it can be tough
8. He makes good choices

9.  He is helpful and dependable
10. He likes being with our family
11. He makes our home a better place
Happy Birthday Bud!