A DECADE ago, Jacob came into our world. The kids and I watched his birth this morning and laughed- he had a TON of black hair, so the doctor kept asking if he was a girl. He was also a big boy and kept sucking his arm- he was and is incredibly handsome.

Jake is meant to be our oldest- he takes such great care of his siblings. He loves to cook. Sunday mornings he will get up and make everyone breakfast. Jake also loves to put things together- he will spend hours with Legos. It's Lego City in our basement. Time is going way too fast with this kiddo- he makes us laugh around here with his quick wit and contagious laugh. Jake is rather shy at first, but once you get him to open up, he is hilarious. And very intuitive. Jacob is such a softy for his brothers and sister. He is such a great help around here.

He can get anyone to laugh- he is just like his dad and grandpa Alan with their sense of humor

Jake has always loved animals. He is sweet. No- we aren't getting any more pets despite his desperate pleading- but I love watching him with animals.

Right now, Jake loves to fish. Chad has been taking him lately. He could spend all hours fishing. Baseball has been a blast this past year as well.

We just got back from a rockin' party with a bunch of crazy boys and Jake was in heaven. So fun to watch him so happy with his friends and living in the moment, doing what boys do best: PLAY HARD.

Jake, we love you so much- with your zest for life, smile, sensitivity, intelligence and kindness...you can do and be anything you want in life. Happy birthday.