The Boy is Twelve!

My son is twelve. This post is to him to read when he’s ready to see sappy words from mom. Every time gifting is happening at our house, whether Christmas or birthdays, I sit in the floor to wrap gifts and always think….this is not enough. I should have done more. He won’t be satisfied with what we’ve done. And every time I’m wrong. It’s a good reminder that maybe the stuff isn’t what’s important. May we all be so satisfied with life that what we have right in front of us is exactly enough.

Michael 7

Dearest Michael,

Happy Birthday. You made it to twelve. I am so proud of you and the young man you have become. I can’t believe you are one year away from being a real teenager and four years away from driving. Yikes!

michael 13    michael 14

michael 15

I’m proud of your dedication to baseball and your team each season. I was so surprised last summer when you called me to tell me you were trying out for a team in our new town. I was so proud when you went to tryouts and showed how well you know this game. I was so excited that you took initiative to be a part of a team after we moved. Your decision helped our transition to Gladewater. Your bravery to try new things allowed us the opportunity to make new friends and learn more about our new community. Your commitment to never miss a practice speaks volumes about you. You are a teachable player, a good teammate, and my very favorite baseball player. Thank you for working so hard, for giving me a good way to keep a tan from spring to fall, and for showing up for your team in attitude and skill.

Michael 6  michael 11

I am so proud of the friends you have made this year. I was so worried when we moved that you would have a rough transition…new town and new school and new people and MIDDLE SCHOOL. I prayed so hard that your heart would be protected and you would survive this first year. Not only did you survive, you thrived! You made some good friends that hold you accountable to be a good young man and to serve the Lord. I am so thrilled and thankful for the boys.

Michael 9

Then there’s school…DUDE! We had no idea what we were doing when we checked all the boxes for your 6th grade classes. Your decision to try all advanced classes was brave…and was totally the right decision. Thank you for being responsible with your work at school and for being a good student. Thank you for representing our family well and for being kind to your classmates and teachers. I am so proud all of the awards you received for your hard work . I am also so glad that this is your home. Gladewater Bear for life!

michael 17

Thank you for loving me so well. Thank you for taking selfies with me every time I ask. Thank you for being kind to others and for understanding that our move was a leap of faith. Thank you for your soft heart and love of Jesus. Thank you for reminding me to love others when they are not easy to love and annoying.

MJ. Happy Birthday. Have a good day. Be a good friend. Be kind. Remember that I love you.

The Lord Bless you and keep you

The Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you

The Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.

 Love, mom.

Michael 4 michael 12 img_4747 IMG_4119 IMG_4231 IMG_4345 IMG_3655 IMG_2765

3 Comments on “The Boy is Twelve!

  1. Oh the tears reading this! ? Happy birthday, Michael! Bl Love you to the nth!

    -Aunt Katie

  2. I love this. Good job Momma in directing his path. You have obviously given him a good foundation. Love your family.

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