Happy 14th Birthday

Dear Alex, 

Today you turn 14. You are halfway through your last year of middle school. This has been a year of change for both of us. You are growing taller and your braces came off this fall. You want more independence, and as your mom I am trying to navigate the waters of raising a teenager. This is all new to both of us, and for the first time since you were a toddler I find myself in a power struggle with you.  You want to do what you want to do, and I’m just not ready to give up guiding you whether you want it or not. I know (because I am your mother) that although you are moving towards independence, you still need me. And I am trying my best to find that delicate  balance of giving you space while at the same time giving you the guidance you need to continue to grow into the man we both know you can and will become. 

And although these changes are hard sometimes, I know you have a good head on your shoulders and a wise brain in your head. You have a strong moral compass that will keep your headed in the right direction. You have made some mistakes and will make some more. And I know there are going to be times that you have to learn your lessons the hard way. It’s going to be difficult for me to stand back and watch you fall down. I have to trust we have taught you well, and believe that you will stand back up, brush yourself off, and continue to move forward with your head held high. I hope that even though you are seeking independence right now, you know that I am right here when you need me. 

More than anything, I love the times when you talk to me about things going on in your life. Sometimes you tell me about a struggle you are having, and other times you tell me about the funny antics of your friends. You don’t always want my advice. Sometimes you just want me to hear you. I do. And I will always be here to listen, to be your sounding board. Your rock. 

You make us proud everyday. You continue to be a team player on the field, the course, the court and the classroom. Your teachers say you are insightful, bright, and a deep thinker. Your cross country coach says you are a leader who always has a positive attitude. 

Fourteen years ago today, you made me a mom. You are the first of my three greatest blessings. Year after year you prove to be a loyal and wonderful son, brother, cousin, grandson, nephew and friend. Our family is lucky to call you our Alexander, our Alley Cat, our Alexis. I thank God everyday that your middle school days are  happy ones thanks to your friends who appreciate your sense of humor and your trueness. They are lucky to have you as a friend! But I am the most blessed of all, because I am the one you call “Mom.” 

Happy, happy birthday!!! 

I love you so much,

Mom