15 years old

I enjoyed celebrating sweet Sam this year... 

we played hooky from school/work for the afternoon and went out of town where he got a haircut, a new shirt, and a driver's permit! (and in lieu of a birthday cake, he got a cake pop from Starbucks!)

He is so excited to hit the driving milestone - and got right behind the wheel zipping through the round-a-bouts and hopping onto the interstate like it was no big deal! I am so proud of his confidence and readiness to meet life's next steps with enthusiasm... and happy that now I can sit back and enjoy watching the beautiful sunsets while he keeps his eyes on the road!

18 years old

 This guy...

In typical form, Hamp glided into adulthood yesterday with a nonchalance that makes you wonder if he's even paying attention...      then he says things that make you realize he definitely IS!

He was excited for his birthday because he wanted wings for lunch and chocolate cake for dinner. He counted every birthday wish he received - he was up to 20 before breakfast! He seemed genuinely touched by his grandparents' thoughtful cards and gifts and was grateful for it all. Meanwhile, I remain ever grateful that I get to watch him grow up.

weekend visitor!

 For Christmas this year, Cousin Graham got plane tickets to come visit Hamp and learn to ski!

And even though it technically wasn't a gift for Hamp, it was the one thing he loved the most about this Christmas: having his cousin come to visit.

Graham got a couple of days on the mountain with Hamp - and he did great but apparently he prefers his summer activities in Mississippi! (in his defense... it was very cold the weekend he was in town!)

It was a pleasure having him stay with us and so fun to watch these two, who have been friends by default, but for real, since birth. Love watching these two Hightower boys grow up together... even though they're miles apart!