Dear Zach,
Happy 12th birthday to my baby boy! One more year until you are a teenager, but in many ways you already act like one. You love to stay up late, play video games, hang out with Alex and his friends, and argue for the sake of arguing.
The highlight of this past year was when we surprised you with a trip to Universal Studios. We picked you up from school and headed to the airport. We spent three days in the parks from open to close. You guys rode every roller coaster and I even went on some rides too. We had the best weekend. You ask to go back at least once a week.
You are in middle school this year! Middle school at Gilman is one of the coolest places (says me, a former teacher). You love switching classes and how fast the day seems to go. You may forget a book now and then or get to Language Arts class a few minutes late (traffic!) but you are getting straight A’s and always get your homework done. Your teachers have nothing but good things to say about you.
You have lots of friends and Izzy’s and Alex’s friends all treat you like a little brother. It makes me smile every time someone sees you and says “Ziggy!” because everyone knows you and loves you. Your bond with Stella is as strong as ever, and I love that she is one of your best friends! Every boy needs a girl best friend.
You are so easy to love. You are funny, kind, loyal, and quick witted. And that mischievous smile of yours is contagious. Your inappropriate jokes and use of curse words gets you in trouble, but as a third child, I admit you get away with too much. But I know when push comes to shove, you make the right choices and stand up for others. But you also know when to walk away from a fight, not because you are scared of confrontation, but because I have taught you it is usually the person who reacts that loses. Being the bigger person is always a sure way to win!
Besides playing video games (too many video games), you play lacrosse and flag football. You also started wrestling. It is not an easy sport and takes a lot of mental grit, not to mention physical stamina. It isn’t easy to get back up, but you do. And we are proud of you for trying something new and difficult.
Cheers to you my sweet boy! Have the happiest day and the best year ever.
I love you more,
Mom
