11-12-13: A Golden Birthday

Sterling up in our ginkgo tree 11-8-13

Sterling is twelve today! Twelve on the 12th and it just happens to be 11-12-13 for his special day. Just look at this handsome guy. In October he auditioned for the Illinois Music Educators Association Junior Orchestra. As a 6th grader, this is his first year of eligibility. He had a great audition which qualified him to play in the Junior Orchestra in Decatur this past Saturday. Sterling was the only one from our county to attend. He and I drove up together and were surprised to find out that Sterling had been chosen as concert master! Wow!! That was especially surprising because Sterling was one of the youngest players. He did very well, but if it were up to him, they would have picked up the pace a bit on a couple of songs. They played them much slower than the music indicated and Sterling loves to play fast! Overall, it was a good and worthwhile experience. (Sadly, I forgot the video camera. Rats!)

When Sterling was in 4th grade, he played the violin while jumping on his pogo stick for his school talent show. In 5th grade, he played while riding his Ripstik. This year he decided that it would be cool to play violin while riding on a unicycle so Sterling was pretty happy to get a unicycle for his birthday (Jeff's idea). If I know Sterling, he'll figure that thing out and be zipping around our garage in no time. I am, however, going to insist that he use his old 3/4 violin for the talent show. I know, mean mom. :) I'm anxious to see if he can pull this one off. If anyone can, it's Sterling!

Happy Birthday, Sterling. You are a great young man. I love your kindness and your patience. Thanks for putting up with school even though you'd much rather be home. You are a great friend and a terrific buddy and brother. I'm excited for you to receive the priesthood. I know you'll take your responsibilities seriously and be a blessing to so many. Your musical ability astounds me and I can't wait to see where it takes you. I love that you like having me around and I hope you never grow out of that. I think you're pretty awesome and I'm so glad you're mine!

I hope twelve is your best year so far!! 

XO