First Day of 5th Grade

It looks like my "baby" is growing up. This year is his last year of Elementary school. I look at him in awe at how much he's grown and what a wonderful young man he's becoming. Although some times he can make me crazy, he is my heart and he makes me so proud! He's got this quirky personality that makes him JT. He's funny, he's caring and compassionate, he's smart and he's so full of energy and wonder. He's stubborn and he doesn't back down easily, he questions "why" and he has no problem challenging anyone and telling them when they are wrong. He has an excellent memory - except for when it comes to school - and he loves to learn, on his terms. He's a great prayer and I believe he's got a special connection with God. He never ceases to amaze me with his thoughts about God or how he pieces together things of faith.

He is truly a wonderful blessing and I am so blessed by God to have him in my life. Yes, WE (Tim and I) are blessed, but I am the one writing this! :) We've had him in our life for 7 years. Time certainly flies.

In a mere 5 years, he'll be behind the wheel of my car learning to drive. He'll be kissing a girl for the first time in just a few years. He already wants to ask a girl out on a date - but he has at least 5 more years before that's gonna happen. In 8 years he'll be heading to college. 8 years isn't far enough away!

Where is that little 3 year old who used to actually fit in my lap?!

Yesterday, we went to the Duval County Courthouse and sat down for about 5 minutes in Judge Wiggin's chambers where his final decree of adoption was signed. This was actually a necessary readoption in the State of Florida to recognize the foreign adoption as well as formalize his name change. It also marks his official citizenship in the U.S.A!

Although we could have and maybe should have already had this done... I'm glad we waited since Julian got to take part in it and was very excited. Maybe it's a memory he'll keep.