Eight seems like such a big number to me. Maybe that’s because today is Nick’s 8th Birthday. Today, I see that my baby boy is really a “big kid” now. For his birthday, Nick got a video game & some comics. He went to school decked out in his camo outfit. He writes in cursive, and has a bunch of grownup teeth. Today, I celebrate his life, but I also am kind of in mourning for my Teletubby-loving toddler. What happened to that little boy who went on hand-held walks with me as we talked about nature? Today, I have to remind him to be gentle with his snake. What happened to the boy with the curly blonde hair? Today, I wrestle to get that one piece to lay flat on his head & count the days until the Summer buzz-cut. What happened to the boy who knew all his colors before he could walk? Today, I have to get on him to do his homework. What happened to the boy who has been to the Emergency room a few times with allergy & asthma issues? Today, he’s playing soccer & living a very wild & full life. What happened to my little boy who loved to eat lima beans? Today, we’ll probably end up at Red Lobster for his Birthday meal.  What happened to the little boy that I had to hold onto everywhere we went? Today, I have to learn to let go just a little bit more.

Happy Birthday Nick! I love what a great kid you’ve turned out to be. I love your sensitive heart, your love for people & animals, the way you are a helper & friend to your little sister, your simple, but powerful faith in God, the way you’ve handled the unfairness of your allergies, your funny sense of humor, your intelligence, your smile & your “I love you’s”.  Have a great day Buddy!