
This was the year.
The year that we started middle school (I say we because I got a crash course in 6th-grade GEMS math this year). The year that the world began to emerge from the pandemic. The year that we planned and (actually) went on trips. The year that you and your sister truly became buddies (which is the one gift as a parent that I hope we can leave you with).
It has been a great year and one in which we have quietly watched you begin to mature into an amazing young man. I hope that as you look back on this year (and your birthday video), you will appreciate all of the moments our family has experienced and continue to live a life you will remember.
Nolin, may you have the most amazing birthday, and I can’t wait for what the next year will bring because these moments are the only gifts we need!