Jake turns 8

Well, it happened.  What appears to be my only son went from this:

To this:

While I blinked.

He got big.  He is no longer my baby boy.  Now he is my big boy and growing little man.

Turning eight is a big deal around here.  It signifies your transition from little kid to big kid.  You are contributing, decision-making, and becoming accountable for those choices.

But more on that later when I post all about his baptism. :)

For now, I just want to document, and therefore remember, how we celebrated this big day.

It started with presents at breakfast.

We live by the Nike and Under Armour outlets.  He may be becoming a name-brand boy.  These were all he wanted for his special day.  Thank heaven for great sales!

Next we did the traditional birthday photo shoot.  This could or could not be more of a present for me.  Although he is a pretty good sport about it, and I know deep down inside my kids feel special to have the camera focused just on them.  Even if they won't say it. 

Then we partied!  We had a tailgate party with a few buddies and soccer drills - then headed off to the BYU Men's Soccer game!

They were TOTALLY into the game...for the first 20 minutes.  Then one buddy bought a soccer ball and they spent the majority of the rest of the game playing 2 on 2.  It was really cute!

At the end of the game the BYU players all came to the sidelines for high-fives and autographs.  These guys were completely star-struck.

After the game we stopped at Jamba Juice for smoothies and they watched a movie in the car on the way back.  It was such a perfect night.

As we tucked our little man in bed that night I couldn't help but miss him as a little guy, but feel so excited and proud of the boy he is growing into.  He is my favorite son.

Here are just a few of things that I adore about him:

1.  He loves deeply and has a tender heart.
2.  He is all boy.  Loves all things manly.  No nancy-boy here.
3.  He is such a hard-worker.  Just like his dad.
4.  His dad is his best buddy in the world.  Our neighbor Luke firmly holds the runner-up spot.  Always has.
5.  He is the best brother.  He teases incessantly, but loves and protects his sisters ferociously.
6.  He is righteous and has a deep desire to be good.  He wants the things that are best for him.  This includes every aspect of his life.
7.  He enjoys eating and being healthy.
8.  He is a great athlete and loves to compete and get better.

I am smitten with him.  Total mom-crush on this kid.  How proud he makes me.  How grateful I am to be my little mister's mother.

Happy Birthday buddy boy!  We love you so so much.