Dear C,
You are nine today - which means you have been in my thoughts and heart for over a decade.
Today we celebrated your birth with a bowling party, it was chaotic, loud - and perfect. Just like you. I watched you laugh and joke with your friends. I watched you as you bowled with confidence and could tell that you felt safe around these boys - from school, soccer and neighborhood and your aunties and uncles. They were all there because you, my dear boy are a loyal friend and a good kid. You are loved.
This year, you have begun to come into your own. You stand taller and actually are coming out of your typical quiet shell. You spoke with your grandmother tonight and had a LONG conversation. I was bowled over by the sheer joy you had on your face recounting the details of your party. You are not typically a talker (unless it is about video games) - but wow, things are a changin'.
Over the past few months, I have caught myself wondering, "is that MY son?" You are becoming a boy, not a baby. You are ready first in the morning, are pushing back when the family jokes with each other and show patience and tenderness (usually) when playing with your little sister. I marvel at how tall you have grown in the last few months and was shocked to find that you have such big feet in comparison to your chums...hmmm? You are going to be taller than I thought. You are not mushy and cuddly any more, there is NO baby fat on you. You are gangly, but run like a beautiful gazelle. I have hugged you more lately, readjusting my expectation of a returned sloppy kiss.
I love to have real conversations with you. You are incredibly observant and have the memory of an elephant. You can call me on my Sh*t. Yes, sometimes mommies are not as neat as they could be. Whatever - I am the mom here.
You are funny, athletic, thoughtful and smart. Your dad and I have such high expectations, sometimes it amazes me that you can live up to them. Like us, you are born first. You are the responsible one, the one we think should know better and the one who generally actually listens. This is the first time you have struggled with school. It has been amazing to watch your thought process and how you learn. I know you will be fine.
Thanks for teaching me to be a mother. For reminding me daily that things change and I better pay attention. Thanks for being sensitive and reminding me that despite all that growth, you are still my baby boy and that there are times when only your mama will do.
Love,
Mom
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