Presenting Bloomington/Normal's Newest Driver . . .

Well, he did it! He got his license today! A big CONGRATULATIONS to Alex!

His BIGGEST birthday present, thanks to Oma & Pappy, will be officially his as of May 16:

Gulp. Are we REALLY ready for this? I have to confess -- I choked back tears (a couple of times unsuccessfully) on a number of occasions today as I came to the realization of exactly what turning 16 years old means. (The "parenting manual" didn't say anything about all the emotions we would experience as we celebrate this milestone birthday! LOL) It's happening right before our eyes -- our son is growing up, spreading wings, and becoming a responsible, young adult. Wow. Amazing how that happens.

Get in, buckle up, sit back, and relax (yeah, RIGHT!) -- we're headed down a whole new road! :o)

Happy Birthday to Alex

Sweet 16 and never been kissed? Well . . . the "sweet 16" part, at least. I don't think the second part of that famous statement applies in this case. LOL! Yes, it is true -- Alex celebrates the big 16 today! Happy Birthday to Alex!

As you might have guessed, plans for the week include a visit to the DMV to take the infamous driving test. Fingers crossed for success -- we shall see how that goes. :o)

As for me, well, I'm having a hard time coming to the realization that my "baby" is 16 years old. My goodness how time flies. In many ways, I'm just not ready to let him go yet -- but we all know that with a drivers license comes a new level of independence . . . and a new level of trust and responsibility. As we keep reminding Alex, this is "big time"! Fortunately, Alex is one of the youngest in his class, so we've watched most of his friends pass this milestone over the course of the past year. But still . . . when it is YOUR baby, it is different. :o) In so many ways, it seems like it was just yesterday that my "little" 11-pounder made his grand entry into this world (I can still remember the doctor saying, "Congratulations! You have a 3 month old!" LOL). But then I look in the mirror at the gray hairs and wrinkles and remember every little detail of those action-packed 16 years. :o)

Alex, we are so very, very proud of you! Happy birthday sweetie!