Biniyam had trouble thinking of what he wanted to say, so I (Leslie here) am doing it for him.

Biniyam likes to keep life simple. Currently, his existence revolves around two things: sports & lego...with the odd computer game thrown in for good measure.

On the sports front, Biniyam keeps us really busy. We made the decision early on that no one in the family would get involved in hockey because we didn't think we could manage the time commitment, what with all those practices and tournaments. Instead, Biniyam swims five times/week and travels all over the place to swim meets. At least the equipment is lighter and easier to carry, and the pool is within an easy walk/run/bike ride of our place.

In addition to swimming, Biniyam likes running, cross country skiing, cycling and almost anything else that involves movement and competition. In the spring, he competed in a 6 X 1(mile) relay race for all ages. His team is the youngest entered by quite a few years, and they do very well. He's excited that the Jackrabbits ski program will be adding a racing group this winter, because after all, what is the point of going slow???

He also tried his hand (or feet) at a kids' fun triathalon this summer. Being the only trained swimmer in the group, he surged ahead as soon as the water was too deep for running, and he didn't look back, beating everyone in the older age group we'd placed him in. This one was clearly just for fun, so we'll have to look for some more competitive triathalons for him next summer.

Just for a change, Biniyam (inspired perhaps by his sister, Meghan) tried his hand (well, voice) at public speaking. Just another way to compete, right? He spoke about Ethiopia and being adopted. It was very touching and even had members of the audience other than his mother looking teary-eyed.