To Ethan for his 8th

Dear Ethan,

When I look at you, I still see the 9 month old whose shoulders squished up when I lifted him and smiled adoringly at me with large, brown eyes. I see the toddler, rounded face, drooling, saying his numbers; purposely getting silly at "5-and-teen." I see the young boy going to preschool. He wore a belt with shirt tucked in for 6 months because another boy in the class did too. He never ever wore shorts, even in summer; and never ever wore sandals, even in summer.

Now I look at you and see a really big kid. Tall, lanky, growing wildly into pre-teenhood. He's so sensible, smart, and intrigued by so many things. He sets about tasks with hard determination to throw harder, draw better, read more, build higher. He can spend long hours with a book, or a pencil and paper, or a construction set.

Most of all, dear, know that you are loved and we are proud. Live your life with integrity. Don't compromise, cut corners, or find the easy path. Be honest and true to yourself and to others. Go with sureness and confidence. Find your place in the world that will fulfill dreams. Take care of your loved ones and family, others in need, and your earth.

What I see is the boy who will grow into the teenager, who will grow into the man, and I will be so proud.

Happy 8th Birthday.