Welcome to Double Digits - a letter to my son -

Holy Moly, it’s double digit time. You are 10.

My heart is in my throat as I type this. My sweet, crazy, caring, always dancing boy is 10.

What an amazing journey this last decade has been. Your dad and I are so proud of the young man you are becoming.

We’re on the cusp of a lot of changes. Right now, I’m relishing all the small moments that I worry will vanish before I’m ready. My favorite part of the day is right before you go to sleep – we lay in your bed and talk, sometimes we read together, sometimes we play a game. It’s our time. I ask questions; sometimes you answer; sometimes you don’t. It’s the time where tough conversations can happen. We’ve had a few already; more will come.

We are at the stage where you’re still a child but yet, there are real world/adult things that you need to know about. I want to keep you sheltered, but I know that’s not possible. Life is coming and it will not shield you from the ugliness that lurks in the shadows. I need to prepare you for all that will be thrown at you.

I know you can handle it.

So while we teeter on that ledge, I’m going to enjoy the fun, 4th grader that you are. You love video games and are constantly begging me to allow Fortnite. Maybe someday. You play outside with our awesome neighbors — riding bikes, playing football and who knows what else. Baseball is your sport of the moment, and you joined a competitive Hip Hop crew. Reading is still a favorite past time and I’m constantly searching for new books for you to devour.

Last year, I brought you into the Marvel Universe. We joke and call me your “Marvel Movie Mom” and Daddy is your “DC Dad”. We’ve seen a LOT of movies in the last 6 months and I love spending that time with you, watching and then discussing the plot points/favorite scenes etc.

You are such a joy, and I am so thankful that I get to watch you grow and develop into the awesome human being that you are.

Work hard. Have fun. Make smart choices. Come to us when you have questions.

Daddy and I love you so very, very much.

Happy Birthday, sweet boy.