My oldest son, Ethan, turned 13 a couple of weeks ago. This. is. a. big. deal. In our family, we have decided to make this particular birthday a big event. We, of course, like to recognize all birthdays, but the 13th is a bit different. This, is the beginning of Ethan's journey into manhood.
Many, many years back Mike and I studied the book Raising a Modern Day Knight. This book talks about key developmental points in a young man's life, starting from birth. Mike and I want to make sure that our sons are adequately equipped for the life ahead of them. Becoming a "man" in this day in age is tough. The lines have become blurry as to what a man's job is since we have become a general-neutral society. There are more and more television shows in which the man/husband is emasculated within the family. I realize these shows can be funny, but how confusing can they be to young boys who are trying to establish their place in the world?
Thankfully, my Ethan has his Daddy, his Poppy, and many other Godly examples in our church to help show him the way. He needs to see and hear how important it is to treat his future wife with love, honor, and respect. He needs to know the value of work; whether it be side jobs, chores, or studying hard for a test. He needs to learn the value of standing up for what's right and what it means to be "tough"; it's not all about physical effort, after all.
Right now, there is a plan that has been set in motion for Ethan's life. Although we are not sure what it is, we know that God is in control of what's to come and we can take comfort in that. Ethan is a good boy with a kind heart and a sense of humor that will leave you in stitches. I love his attitude on life, his relationships with his siblings, and his deep desire to make good choices. I am going to miss the carefree days when our biggest dilemma was how to celebrate the Super bowl and what we're going to have for dinner, but I am excited and hopeful about the adventures ahead.
Many, many years back Mike and I studied the book Raising a Modern Day Knight. This book talks about key developmental points in a young man's life, starting from birth. Mike and I want to make sure that our sons are adequately equipped for the life ahead of them. Becoming a "man" in this day in age is tough. The lines have become blurry as to what a man's job is since we have become a general-neutral society. There are more and more television shows in which the man/husband is emasculated within the family. I realize these shows can be funny, but how confusing can they be to young boys who are trying to establish their place in the world?
Thankfully, my Ethan has his Daddy, his Poppy, and many other Godly examples in our church to help show him the way. He needs to see and hear how important it is to treat his future wife with love, honor, and respect. He needs to know the value of work; whether it be side jobs, chores, or studying hard for a test. He needs to learn the value of standing up for what's right and what it means to be "tough"; it's not all about physical effort, after all.
Right now, there is a plan that has been set in motion for Ethan's life. Although we are not sure what it is, we know that God is in control of what's to come and we can take comfort in that. Ethan is a good boy with a kind heart and a sense of humor that will leave you in stitches. I love his attitude on life, his relationships with his siblings, and his deep desire to make good choices. I am going to miss the carefree days when our biggest dilemma was how to celebrate the Super bowl and what we're going to have for dinner, but I am excited and hopeful about the adventures ahead.
Ethan Roy, I am so happy to be your Momma!
We celebrated together as a family on the 29th.
Ethan is now old enough to have his own hunting rifle.
Thank you Gam and Poppy!
We also celebrated at the church with a lot of his friends.
Gam and Poppy came down to love on our boy...AND to make his famous pork!
There has never been a better tastin BBQ.
Massive games of dodge ball, basketball, and every other type of game involving pain. Thankfully we only had a few injuries.
Love these boys.
I couldn't resist including this one of Addie Pie just hanging out with the guys.
That's our boy. He's well on his way to becoming a fine godly man!
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