Happy Birthday, Noah!

I always cry on my boys' birthdays. When you have a baby, everyone tells you to enjoy every minute because it goes so fast. That is so true! Today, I woke up and tears filled my eyes as I realized that my son Noah, is 15. Where did the time go? As a way to honor my amazing Noah, I would like to tell you just how special he is.

Noah came into this world as a tiny baby boy. The labor and delivery were very difficult, but he emerged, chord around the neck, weighing just 5 lbs. 2 oz. He was very small, but grew and thrived. From the beginning moments of his life, he loved the drums. His Dad, Jon, played drums in our church and he would sit Noah on his lap while he played. Most babies would be terrified of that kind of noise, but Noah loved it! Noah was an easy baby and brought such joy to our home.

One of the most joyful memories I have of Noah was when he turned three. He loved Buzz Lightyear and one day, as I told him I loved him, this is how he responded. "Mom, I love you to infinity and beyond!" I laughed and cried because he was so cute! He still tells me he loves me to infinity and beyond, everyday.

Most Moms dread the teenage years, but Noah has been incredible. He has his moments, as do most teenage boys, but He is growing into a quite the young man. Noah is kind and has a heart so big, especially for the underdog. His whole life, he has reached out to other kids that were left out and sought to make them feel included.

Noah is introverted and quiet, but when he talks, I listen. This is because he usually has something  profound to say and extends wisdom beyond his years, that leaves me speechless. It's amazing to me how a young man his age can have such pearls of wisdom and can cut to the heart of an issue with just a few words. What a gift!

Noah's name means, "a gift from God, who will bring peace." He has truly lived up to his name and his presence in our home brings peace and laughter. Noah gives the most amazing hugs and his handsome smile lights up the room. I am blessed to be his Mom and thank God that He gave me a tiny gift named Noah, 15 years ago.

Happy Birthday, Noah Jonathan Hamp! I hope today is filled with joy, laughter and incredible memories. You are a gift my son, and I am blessed and honored to be your Mom. I love you to infinity and beyond!!