Letter to My Son – Happy 12th Birthday!

And that picture pretty much sums it up right there. If there was ever a kid who had a zest for life, it’s this one.

This year, the only thing Nick wants for his birthday is a paddle board. He has researched models and prices to the nth degree. Took one out for a demo a few weeks ago. Asked for gift cards for his birthday. And calculated exactly how much of his own money he will need to get the one he wants.

And this represents so much of who he is today.

Today he is 12. And just like with the paddle board, once he fixates on a goal, nothing can deter him. He is very analytical and focused as he figures out the best way to meet his goal and he barrels straight for it. Whether it’s a paddle board, a track meet competition, or convincing his sister to do something she doesn’t want to do.

Most every day, I feel like the kids are at the perfect age and I just want to freeze time right now. Sadly, life doesn’t quite work that way and they’re growing up with my permission or without it.

Dear Nick,

You are awesome. Just plain and simple. You have grown so much in the past year and are really coming into your own. You know exactly who you are, what you like, and what you want. And you don’t let much stand in your way.

Over the past year, you have continued with your love of track, swimming, and technology, and you’re becoming more and more independent every day.

Which pretty much means you just need me for money. And even then that’s mostly not true since you’re funding your own adventures these days too. Whether it’s your bike or by foot, you’re always off with your friends, getting from one place to the next, and as your mom, it’s awesome to see, but it’s kind of like… whoa.

You are compassionate and kind. You have great empathy for others and animals. You are a wonderful friend and big brother. You are incredibly loyal and have such a good heart. You are silly and goofy. You are always looking out for your sister and I, and we are lucky to have you in our corner.

The past twelve years have been an incredible journey with you, and I wouldn’t want to share this ride with anyone else.

I love you.

Mom

LIKES: soccer, photography, track, magic, swimming, Property Brothers, Shark Tank, pizza, our dog Harry, and the Jersey shore.

DISLIKES: clutter, reading, and not knowing everything that’s going on at all times

A look back…

When he turned eleven…

When he turned ten …

When he turned nine …

When he turned eight …

When he turned seven…

When he turned six…

When he turned five…

When he turned four…

When he turned three…