Happy Birthday, Mr. Awesome!

Happy 13th Birthday, Ethan!

From the moment you were born, I knew you were going to be different. From complications during your birth, to developmental delays, and learning disabilities, to an Aspergers diagnosis, through it all you've always has a great sense of who you are. You've taught Dad and I about strength, faith, perseverance, and unconditional love, and we're so proud of the young man you've become. We love you so much, Ethan! Happy Birthday, bud!

Happy Birthday to The Princess!

Was it really 10 years ago today that you arrived in this world loud and mad? I can still remember holding you and laughing as your angry cries let everyone know you were not happy!

The loudness hasn't changed; I can tell where you are in the house because your laughter and excited shouts echo. And, although we constantly have to remind you to settle down, I don't think I would change anything. It's part of who you are and we couldn't ask for a better daughter.

So continue being who you are, Vanessa; we love how enthusiastic you get about your interests, how you love your brothers even when they're mean to you. We love hearing you playing the piano even when you struggle to remember the right notes, and seeing the latest drawing you've been working so hard on. We love the kindness you show others and the tight hugs you reserve for me and Dad. We love you, Vanessa, and are so proud to be your parents.

Happy 10th Birthday, Vanessa! May all your dreams come true!

Conversations with my teenager

Simply Music Piano Party

Back in May, Vanessa's piano teacher had her quarterly Piano Party. This is what she calls the recital for her students, as to make them less nervous about displaying what they've learned. All of her students and their families attend, and she has games for the students to participate in. The last party she had us playing BINGO; each number on our cards represented a task the students were asked to do. For example, if we needed number five to get a BINGO, then that number required the student to play a specific song.

This recent party had the students doing the same thing, Jeopardy-style. Each student could pick the number of points they wanted to earn and did the task. Most of the students are more advanced than Vanessa, but she did really well in earning her 800 points. She's progressing very well and Miss Tonya is very proud of her (and so are Scott and I).