nine

My Ryder had a birthday a few weeks ago.

And he is now a nine-year old.

These pictures are a very good likeness of this kid.

He NEVER wears a shirt (unless he has to of course).

The second he gets home from school, the shirt is off.

I have NO idea why he does this.

Ryder is the complete definition of a boy.

He loves everything "boy".

From riding horses, branding, and working with his dad.

to playing hockey.

And he is so obsessed with hockey right now. 

That's all he talks about.

That's all he wants to play. Ever. (just ask his sisters- they get so tired of him bribing them to play with him).

All he wants to watch on tv is hockey (and sometimes the odd baseball,football or basketball game). 

For his birthday all he wanted was the hockey package on direct tv so he could watch all the NHL games. 

Sorry to say (but not really, a girl can only take so much hockey :)) he didn't get his wish.

He played defence (and sometimes center) on his novice team this year. He plays with so much heart and makes it so much fun to watch. They only lost 2 games this season (and lets just say a few tears were shed each time).

His hockey team ended up winning the league championship.

He was just a little excited.

I just wish I would have had my video ready to record his celebration dance. Darn! It was a gooder!

This was at the triathalon last summer

and coach pitch last spring

His most favorite Christmas present. 

The Crosby jersey.

And a pretty sweet bedhead.

Despite how much of a BOY this kid is, he still manages to be my most sensitive kid.

He seems to be able to sense when I need his help the most.

And he is always the first to say "I love you mom".

I can never say I love you without him saying it back. Every time.

Melt.My.Heart.

Love it, and oh how I love this boy!!