Today marks the 18th birthday party thrown for one of my kids since I became a mother 10 years ago. My son turns 8 on Monday, and he is over the moon excited that today and the next couple of days will 100% focus on him complete with a party, presents, special birthday dinner and lots of friend and family surrounding him.
When he woke up this morning, he came into the kitchen, and the first thing he said was, “Mommy, you made a promise to me. Do you remember what you always do on my birthday?” “What’s that, honey,” I responded. “You sing to me!”
So there we were…He, with sleep in his eyes, and me, with tears in mine. I held him in my arms and sang the “Happy Birthday” song. It was the sweetest moment just for us…mother to son sharing a quiet joy of the excitement for the day ahead.
My son sends me on roller coaster almost every day of our lives. He tests authority and argues and negotiates almost over everything — especially when his sister is involved. The sibling rivalry is just ridiculous! But then….when I least expect it, he wants to cuddle and cherishes a moment that is quiet and special just for us. He loves me, and I love him…no matter what.
So, my song of the day is a gorgeous ballad from Jennifer Nettles called “This Angel.” That is exactly what he is to me. He is my angel despite the bumps in the road and the gray hairs he puts in my head. I love you, little guy. Happy birthday from the bottom of my heart!
