Well, this year it happened.  Elijah is officially the tallest person in our immediate family…and at fifteen (and if his appetite is any indication), is probably not done growing yet.

It does make it hard to remember, though, that he’s only fifteen…and I definitely don’t want time to go any faster than it already is.

This year, Elijah got his black belt in Tae Kwon Do.  He made two ukuleles, repaired a guitar and is working on making another guitar from scratch.  He has also started playing guitar in earnest this year and that, along with woodworking, consumes nearly all of his free time.

As always, Elijah remains full of wit and laughter.  He still makes me smile many times each day.  He does have a stubborn streak, too, though, which shows up with more regularity, and so we walk that line of teaching him respect and obedience while also encouraging him to be principled and independent.

Our Bud is also still kind-hearted and sensitive.  He encourages his younger siblings and helps them when they’re learning something new.  He has a servant’s heart when he recognizes that someone has a need, though struggles with tasks that he doesn’t see as necessarily benefiting a particular person.

He is athletic, and goofy and personable.  He loves Jesus and worships with his whole heart.  I’m so thankful for Elijah, and I love him more than words.  It is a privilege to celebrate his fifteen years today.