The name Nathanael means “gift of God”, and that is truly what he is to me, and to our family. This young man is disciplined, thoughtful, generous, humble and kind. There is no task that he is unwilling to take on (most days).

He regularly (read: purposely) takes on the responsibilities of anyone who seems to need help.

He does the jobs that need doing that otherwise would fall through the “cracks” in our days.

He knows where everything is, not just because he notices details, but also because he helps in just about every aspect of our home life.

He is generally slow to speak and slow to become angry. It is rare for him to ever get into arguments with his siblings, and he often plays the role of peacemaker.

Nathanael has proven himself more than capable at so many things, he is a genuine jack-of-all-trades.

He is wise and frugal with his finances.

He is a great gift-giver because he pays attention to the people around him and knows everyone’s interests.

Nathanael actively avoids recognition for the ways he helps others. He seems almost…embarrassed (?)… to admit when he has done something for someone else.

He doesn’t have particular plans for the future yet, but he loves construction, and Physics, and problem solving, so he definitely has a general direction.

There are so many other things I could say. I am so very thankful for who Nathanael is, and I am proud of the choices he makes every day. I love him with all my heart and am excited to see all God’s plans unfold in his life.