perfect 5 take smile

Originally uploaded by kzoomoo

You graciously shared your day with the Homeschool class of 2010. That’s a big deal, because turning 10 is such a milestone.

But you’re no stranger to graciously sharing your birthday. Back in 2004, when you were anticipating your golden birthday, we were expecting a baby. He was running late, and I braced you for the possibility of having to share your birthday with the new baby. You thought about it and smiled and said, “That’s ok, Mommy.”

As it turned out, the baby was born the day before your birthday. I was too tired to do anything for that golden birthday, but Grammy came over and helped throw you a family party.

You remember every face you’ve ever seen, and you learn everyone in the room’s name as quickly as possible. It is astonishing to watch you at work.

And just when I think you’re not paying attention, you’ll surprise me with the takeaway message from you lessons. Like today, when we looked at a picture of Miss Iceland in the USA pageant. Her last name had virtually no vowels. Her last name was Egilsdottir. You said, “Her Dad must be named Egil.” So you remembered that nobody in Iceland has last names; they are surnamed a combination of their father’s name and whether they’re a son or daughter.

Just when I thought you didn’t get anything out of social studies.

When am I going to learn to never underestimate you? You can do anything you set your mind to.

Happy Birthday, sweetie! It’s been a full decade. May the next one be much better.