J man

Several years ago we thought it was a good idea to let our children know we would allow them to invite as many children to their birthday party as was the age they were turning. This actually worked out ok when they were turning 5 or 6. Fast forward several years (something we had not done) to age 9. Jordan turns 9 on Wednesday. We have spent our Sunday fully recovering from the 9 children that not only came for the birthday gathering but also spent the night.

Yes, smarter parents would have said no. I, however, was up for the challenge. I wonder if it has to do with the fact that Todd is a teacher and I think, if he can do it, so can I (of course knowing that he is here to help me! Bonus!). We have said from the very day Jordan starting to attend Farmington Elementary school that his class was special. And they are. Such an amazing group of awesome kids and, luckily for Todd and I, a superb group of parents. It really makes it quite hard for Jordan to "pick" who can come- he wants everyone to be here. So at 2 pm Saturday afternoon they started piling in our house with snow pants, boots, sleeping bags, and clothes. Thankfully, the weather was perfect for outside football, basketball, and just plain old fun. With the snow melting and the ground still frozen, there was slipping, sliding, and jumping in the puddles. These kids were soaking wet and having a blast as evidenced by the statement "this is the best birthday party ever!" (A small side note, we do not get sick from the cold. We get sick from viruses, in case anyone would like to comment on how these children will all be sick...no) so they came in, changed clothes, went back out. This went on for hours...in between some food, some indoor games, presents, cake/ice cream.

Then it was off to the West Bend Bombers hockey game- if you have never been and live in this area, give it a try- completely entertaining, great team, super family fun, and reasonable. The kids had a VIP table set up for them- popcorn, soda...had front row seats for the game so with each score they could pound on the glass and dance with each song played. And after first period 3 of the kids were able to participate in the competition on the ice. They all tried to win money during the second period break with the hockey puck toss. And the Bombers won. Those kids were so good during the game...I was very nervous about that but enjoyed watching their faces as many had not been to a hockey game before.

It's a joy watching my son grow up. Jordan is so much like Todd. I met Todd in 7th grade...and it is really nice knowing what he may have been like in those years before I knew him. Though of course I also know Jordan is unique as well. I recall there being a day which seems like decades ago that Todd and I were not going to have kids. And I am so thankful that God decided otherwise. And found us worthy for such a great gift. Jordan has taught me so much about love. And I believe each moment with him is just the best getting better. Last night as we drove to the game, I had 7 of the kids in the truck. The song "Summertime" by Kid Rock came on and you should have heard them sing! I suddenly forwarded my mind to 9 more years when Jordan will be graduating from high school, jamming to tunes in his car with friends much like we did at that age...wow...time.

And today, after the kids left, Jordan joined me for a walk on the New Fane trails with Bella, our dog. Jordan and I have done this together on numerous occasions. Today was an adventurous stroll checking out forests full of beautiful pine, shag bark, and multiple other tree types. The snow was packed just right. We talked. We checked out birds and wondered what is was like to be an animal in this winter season. He picked up a broken pine branch with 3 pine cones (there's that trinity piece again- thanks for the reminder God) attached to an end and brought it to me to keep...it smells so good Mom. The sun felt hot. And in the middle of the woods, there was not one reminder of the busyness of life...what a joy...and to spend it with Jordan...our small journey was a poetic reminder of how great this life is. I love you Jordan.

Mom