Happy 12th Birthday Jack!

It's hard to believe that this little guy is now twelve. Twelve.

I kind of miss those glasses but I know he doesn't. 

 

One more.  He's changed so much yet he still looks like this guy, just an older version.

 

 

 

Dear Jack,

 

Happy birthday buddy! I know you no longer like to have a huge deal made out of this day but like I told you many times last week, it's a special day and because we love you, we are going to make somewhat of a deal of it. 

I think the cake I made where I accidentally used baking soda instead of baking powder (a whole tablespoon of it) really shows you how much I love you, no? Or maybe it was more when I threw that horrid tasting cake out and made a new one?

Thanks for helping me with the second one to make sure I got it right.

You are growing up to be a really great person.  You are kind and loyal and quick to hug your mom.  I like that, you know.

This year brought you new challenges.  Your first reaction to something new is usually that you would rather not try it, thankyouverymuch.

I know this is part of who you are and you can't change it any more than you could change the size of your nose. I get that.

I also know, from my considerable years of experience (cough, cough) that as your mom, I can't let you sit everything out because of this gut reaction.

You and I came to heads on this a couple of times this year.  One resulted in this:




That's you at the ski hill having the time of your life. The reason? Because you tried it, even though you didn't really want to and because you tried it, you found out you love it.

 

No, I don't get tired of being right, why do you ask?

 

And then yesterday, there was an outdoor ed trip with school. Again, you didn't want to go but mean old mom made you. I knew parts of it would not necessarily be your thing but I also knew you would have fun most of the day.

 

So yeah, sorry about that getting swamped in the canoe thing first thing in the morning, I didn't foresee that, I promise.  You handled it very well and Dad and I are so proud of you.  You could have thrown your hands up and said, "See Mom, I told you this would suck!".  Instead you changed into your swim trucks and had fun.

 

 

It's been a great year, dude.  Academically you continue to excel.  You work hard at school and while most things come easy, you still put in a full effort and do all your work on time. 

 

You have a great group of friends. You chose well there, kiddo. Good friends are a gift to be treasured. As you know, not everyone is as kind, fun and generous as your group of guys.

 

Your Dad and I couldn't be prouder of who you are.  We love you and are privileged to walk by your side as you grown into the man you will become.

 

Love Mom and Dad