Ten Years Ago

As I look back on it now, I can’t believe it’s been an entire decade.

So much has changed about him in those ten years. He’s gone from this sweet, chubby-faced little guy….

to this sharp-looking young man…

Oh, be still my heart.

To my sweet Eli -

Last year we celebrated your “magical birthday”, but this year? This year you have reached a milestone. Double Digits. My soul, I can’t believe it.

Your sweet spirit is unchanged – fiercely protective of those you love, kind and generous to a fault, humbly wise beyond your years. You are the great compromiser – always willing to give up what you want to allow others to have what they want, and yet firm when you know you’re in the right.

This past year put decisions into your hands, decisions that could impact your whole future, and you approached them wisely. You sought council, evaluated options, and reached a decision that you were comfortable in. Not once have you looked back and wondered if you were right with what you chose, and I’m so proud of you for it.

You swell my heart, sweet boy. You fill me with joy. You are free with your hugs, even when the bus has pulled up and your friends are watching.

Thank you for being you. Please, hang on to that – for you? You are wonderful.

 

Hang on to that, too. I’m pretty sure if you fall off we’ll have to have stitches.

I’ll love you forever,

I’ll like you for always.

As long as I’m living,

My baby you’ll be.

Love,

Mommy