When I was considering what to title
this post I knew right away it'd be titled "I Have A Teenager".
Within a split second I realized that just wouldn't work. This is NOT about ME.
Ethan turning 13 is in no way about ME. It's about HIM and the journey HE'S
about to embark on as a teenager, preparing for life as an adult. "Ethan's
A Teenager" is perfect. HE is perfect.
Ethan has always been, from the day
he was born, my suborn, strong willed, independent little boy. He is now, still
all those things, he's just growing and maturing into a young man.
I've said it so many times...he was
my first. I still tell him that on a regular basis. I try to make him realize
that I/we have never been a parent of a child his age, whatever the age may be.
I tell him that as he is learning how to be a person/teenager/man, I am also
learning how to be the mom of that person/teenager/man. He thinks we are so
much harder on him than Corbin. I always tell him we just expect so much from
him since he's the oldest. I know I need to let that go. I need to let him be
who he is. I just need to expect him to do his best. Be the best he can be.
He's an amazing runner. The way he
paces himself on long distances and gives it all he has amazes me every time I
watch him. Running...that's his happy place. That's the place that brings him
joy, fulfillment and peace.
He still has a lot of growing and
maturing to do but I can't wait to be there by his side every step of the way.
I can't wait to see what God calls him to do. He often talks about being a
soldier. He's in awe of our military. Specifically the army. I can see him
doing anything he puts his mind to. He is definitely one determined little guy.
It wasn't until we found out we were
expecting baby number four, that I realized Ethan will be graduating and moving
out in FIVE years. Thanks Matt, for pointing that out :-/ It really got me
thinking. Thinking that I need to make the most of these next five years. I
need to take it all in and make it the best it can be for him(and me in my old
age).
Happy 13th Birthday, Ethan. Welcome
to your teen years. Make em' the best. Cherish this time in your life. It'll be
gone way too soon and you'll be wondering where the years have gone. I know...I
ask myself that every year when you have another birthday.
You are my amazing young man. My
first young man. I'll always cherish every memory I've had with you as a child
and I can't wait to make more memories as you become a great young man. You
will ALWAYS be my little boy. I will always be your crazy, overbearing mom.
I love you to the moon and back,
Ethan. Happy, Happy Birthday, my teen!
Graduating in five years!! I can't believe it - making me cry. This was a great post Amy. So true about your oldest being the pioneer through all the different ages.
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