Ten plus One = Stop growing up

Our sweet boy, our first born, our "let's try it out on Hunter and if it works let's implement it into our parenting techniques" child, our only son turned 11 a little while ago. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't the least bit sad. The truth is, this boy has brought so much joy and happiness into our lives, that every year as he grows a little older, he is also growing a little bit closer to that day when he will leave the nest, and just thinking about that makes me want to throw up a little bit. In 7 years, he'll be 18. A legal adult as far as the world is concerned. I've already had him under my wing for 11 short years and those have flown by. It makes me sad to realize that the next 11 will do the same, and before I know it, he'll be outta here.
But at the same time, I get so excited to see him grow and mature and hear him talk and think out loud and watch him interact and do all the stuff that he does and my heart sings with pride and happiness that he is ours.
Ours for now.
Until the time when he realizes that the fences aren't locked and all he has to do is simply give them a little push and they'll swing open into the wide world beyond.  

The following pic was taken at his birthday party. I love how each child's personality shines through. Seriously. All these kids posed themselves. The only thing I said was, "Hey all! Look over here!" I especially love Laynee's pose. This is the stance she assumes any time the camera comes out. One hand on her hip, on hand hanging down, and the Elvis. I'm not sure what the whole lip curl (Elvis) thing is about, but she pulls it whenever she is told to "Look at mommy for the picture!" Hilarious I tell you.