Tomorrow, you turn seven.
Seven.
7?
She-vehn.
I don't know why, but this number has thrown me for such a loop. I mused to someone that I think it's because the two syllables make it sound much bigger than it is. Thinking about that, I have to laugh, because you sure like to point out the number of syllables in words.
Six. You're still six. I hear you in your bedroom, not sleeping like you promised me you would be doing. You're still only one syllable.
Tomorrow, it's two. But only for a year, then you can back down to one syllable for a couple more years and maybe my heart will be able to handle it a bit better than this milestone.
We've talked lately about how you were the one who made me a mom. You like to share the credit (rightly so) with your siblings. But buddy, it was you. Seven years ago, I hadn't seen your face. And now, I can't imagine my life without you, your brother, and your sister. I was born to be a mommy, and I'm so thankful that you are the one who made me so.
Spencer, you've grown, again, so much in the last year. You've taken the kindness of your heart that has always been there, and somehow multiplied it. You tell people that you're a "kindness ninja" and it's true. I've seen it with my own eyes, in how you will run across a grocery store aisle to help an elderly lady pick up a bunch of change she accidentally dropped, without hesitation or anyone asking you. You pick up change in our home on Sunday mornings and you bring it to church for offering. You help your sister put on her shoes or socks in the morning if you're ready before she is. You proclaim that you'll never run out of hugs for people you love. You love to donate things to people in need. You willingly, patiently, taught both of your siblings to climb the pine tree outside, and have guided them step by step down and out of it on multiple occasions. It all comes so naturally to you.
Of course, we all have our moments where we might not be so kind, but your kindness far outweighs that side of things. I'm so proud to call you my son.
I'll be honest... you try my patience in ways I don't always understand... but really, I delight in you.
Over the course of this last year, I think you've somehow touched the lives of even more people. I have been approached by numerous "new" people this year who have told me they can see Jesus in your heart, see your kindness, and how God has great things in store for you. I've been told by many that you're a blessing to them.
It makes my heart sing.
I love watching you come into your own and see your personality develop. I'll be honest, you're at an awkward stage right now, where you're not only getting even taller and lankier, but you're a little socially awkward in some situations, and you have this weird desire to pose like some sort of hip-hop dude from the early 1990s when I want to take photos of you. You love to wear dress shirts with active wear, you don't care if your pants are too short or your shoes are untied, and you make awkward nonsensical jokes and statements to people when you're nervous, and then laugh at yourself like it's the funniest thing that's ever happened. It's an interesting time. I think I love it. You're also trying to fit in with larger groups of kids your age and older, while still holding onto your innocence and enjoying spending time with children younger than you. I remember those awkward years and I will say you've got a lot in store for you. But, you're going to be awesome.
I can't wait to see what is around the bend. Your love for music and worship is growing, and I believe there's great things in store for you there. Your desire for reading and science is developing more deeply, and you are so very smart. You've got great athleticism inside that body, too. You've so many wonderful facets.
You are a treasure, little man.
I pray that this next year is rich with blessings, laughter, hugs, and fun memories with your family and your friends. I pray that your heart never hardens, and your love continues to grow. I pray that you'll be a blessing to even more and touch the lives of countless others. I pray that you won't lose your love for hugs and cuddles yet, because I'm not ready to let that go.
Happy Birthday, mister man.
You are so deeply loved.
Especially by me.
-Mom
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