It’s a lot when you’re the only boy in a sea of girls. There are the constant suggestions, the not-so-gentle reminders and the incessant talking and talking and talking. In a big family, a spring birthday is also a lot. This year in particular, our calendar is full of so much good and so many big celebrations-why not add one more?
Our king of the castle is 12 today.
Jack takes most of this crazy in stride. He has been the “me, too!” kid since he was a chubby toddler hopping on his battery-powered gator to help Dad, keep up with the girls, or maybe just get away! He’s been content to do his own thing, but always loves an audience when available. He’s a Webel, after all!
In the past year, I have watched my little boy change and grow. As a former sixth-grade teacher, I know that this year in particular with boys is one where the metamorphosis from the beginning of the year to the end is shocking. Jack is following that pattern. The chubby toddler, the squishy-faced boy is changing into a young man, growing not only taller but in maturity as well. While still always down for a good fart joke, Jack is taking the world in and processing how he fits every single day. His faith is growing more and more and his questions have changed from, “Hey Mom if I get a dirt bike…” to “Hey Mom when I’m older, what do you think I’ll be like?”
Like Jack, I find myself lost in the shuffle a bit on his birthday. Oftentimes, we are celebrating the last day of school or finding our way to the State Track meet. We could be planting corn or wrapping hay. It’s a busy time. However, because of Jack’s laid-back disposition, he’s good with Casey’s doughnuts and happy birthday was sung between getting ready for graduation parties and track meets. He’s even okay if the stupid Fed Ex man wouldn’t deliver his last birthday package because of our dog (say a small prayer it comes today, please!).
Jack, even though you are the king of our castle, you are not the ruler. You know how to be kind and caring and patient. You rarely fuss and even when you’re disappointed and upset, you always come back with a hug to me or your dad with an apology or want to talk it through to understand. Your caring heart and cheery disposition make you a delight to be around.
When you’re 12 and a boy, that kindness and love aren’t necessarily celebrated by your peers, but I want you to hold onto that and not let the weirdos who are also 12 sway who you are becoming. Keep being the king. Keep being patient and laid-back and good. Keep your big imagination and humor and creativity going. We know that you are meant for big things, and we are so lucky to watch you grow into the young man from that chubby toddler who used to hold my hand and as 1,000,0000 questions in a morning.
We “lerve” you, Jackson Richard. Here’s to today, doughnuts and a day spent with us.
Love,
Mom