Thirteen felt like a pivot year. Sawyer is 13 going on 21—noticeably more mature, and suddenly sounding older too. His voice is changing, his confidence is growing, and he’s starting to carry himself with a quiet self-assurance that’s new this year.

We traveled to Costa Rica in 2024. One of my favorite moments was watching him get his picture taken with a seal—pure joy, no phone, no distractions. Just him, fully present.

Soccer continues to be a big part of his life, and this year came with a milestone: Sawyer was named captain of his team. Watching him grow into that responsibility has been a real privilege.

Outside of soccer, he’s a huge Phoenix Suns fan and had a few surreal moments meeting players he admires. Seeing his excitement—and then how calmly he handled those moments—was another reminder of how much he’s growing.

Sawyer remains a straight-A student. School comes easily to him, and while procrastination is still part of the equation, he always finds a way to get it done.

As he finishes 13, we’re looking ahead to high school. I’m excited for what’s next for him—and grateful for this year in between childhood and what’s coming. Thirteen was a good one.