Happy Birthday Joseph

It's time to celebrate the birthday of Joseph, known as JoJo to those of us who love him most. Ten years ago today he came into this world screaming and making himself heard, and nothing has changed. Joseph, we have watched you grow into a great guy. There is no one with a bigger heart. Someone with deep feelings. Someone who isn't afraid to cry and miss those who have left us. I love the fact that you feel things deep in your heart. That you care about your brothers so much, that when Jacob was away at camp you were so sad. Daddy and I marvel at your work ethic. No kid works as hard as you do because they like it. Ms. Donna in the kitchen loves having your help on Wednesday nights, and Ms Tammy doesn't know what she is going to do about the sound system for kid's church when you leave. She has come to depend on you. We are so proud of the young man you are becoming, but here's a few highlights from the "younger years."

-hiding in your room to make "snow" for Thomas the Tank engine (out of flour)
-breaking the coffee pot and hanging the metal rim on your arm as a bracelet
-washing the garage floor with kerosene
-playing in the port-a-potty
-visiting the principal on your first day of school
-breaking the lock on the door to the boys restroom because you "had to go"
-playing in the dirt piles because you can
-cutting off your nose with a shovel and while the doctor is stitching it back on asking him to move so you can watch TV
-holding newborn Jonny and telling the nurses to be more careful with him
-reminding me that nursing Jonny was just like a cow- making milk!!!
-the love of wearing a suit- why do you always want to dress up?
-playing the drums while we are all still in bed
-washing out the back of the mini van with the garden hose because you spilled your drink
-day after having surgery (tubes in ears) you were in the pool (without our consent)
-day of surgery, you came home and ate chocolate chip cookies, but wouldn't drink the water the nurses wanted you to so you could come home in the first place. Good thing I had some pull there!
-carrying "that crazy dog" around like a stuffed animal

I'm sure there are more and I'll think of them later. Buddy, I love being your mom and can't wait to see what you do next. No matter what, I know that you will give it your best and not quit no matter how hard things get. Thanks for being the best big brother to Jonny and for being Jacob's best friend. I love you.