Happy 15th Birthday Son!

Wishing my son a very happy 15th birthday, hope he enjoyed his day despite having to get up bright and early for freshman orientation. It seems there is something with the school going on almost every year on his birthday. At least this way he got to see all his friends, which always makes a birthday that much more fun.

I can't believe he's a freshman in high school already, he's growing up so fast! I remember holding him as a baby, and when he first started walking and talking, and his first day of school, like it was just yesterday. His school photos came the other day and he is looking so mature and handsome....and more and more like me at his age. It's so cool how both my kids look just like me - my son looks like me at his age and my daughter looks like me now. Guess that's genetics for ya :)

I'm so proud of what a bright and talented young man he is becoming. He gets great grades, always on the honor or high honor roll, just like me. That will be a big help in getting college scholarships in a few years. I wonder what he's interested in studying, or if he's even given it any thought. At his age I don't think I had any idea. It took a few more years. But the grades are very important if you want to have choices, not only in school, but in life too....so keep it up son, you're doing great! He looks strong, like he works out. I'm sure football keeps him in shape and hopefully he is doing some other physical activity in the off season, maybe wrestling or something. I'm sure he's well into football practice for the upcoming season and playing freshman ball at the school. Would love to catch a game, all I need is an invitation...hint hint.

Eventhough I haven't talked to my son in over 4 years now, I of course still love him so very much (and always will), think about him each and every day (can't help it, his pictures are all over my office and house) and remember what it was like to be his age without a relationship with my dad. I understand what he is going through, although I'm sure he doesn't think I do. No kid thinks their parents understand or know anything :) I wish he wanted me around and in his life. Maybe he does but he just can't say it or show it. All he has to do is speak up, tell a trusted adult, call me and talk, invite me to a game, take me up on my offer to take him to lunch or golfing, or hunting....no pressure, no questions if he doesn't want to go there, he can even bring a friend if he wants. It's up to him, I hope he knows that. There is nothing preventing him from making the next move, except the fog of course.

On a lighter note, I saw my aunts, uncles and cousins in Naples yesterday. We all got together and had a boys day of golf at the course down there where my uncle and cousin work. It was so much fun and I remember being there with my son many years ago. In fact, my aunt dug up a note my son sent her after spending the night at her house back in 2005 and brought it to the party. It made me laugh, his little boy handwriting. He and my daughter always had such a good time there with all the cousins, playing in the creek and riding four wheelers, and being doted on by my aunt & uncle. I thought I'd share the note here so you all can enjoy it too. The Naples crew sends their love and birthday wishes.

I would also like to thank all my family and friends who helped make my son's birthday special for me too today. So many wonderful people called with their love, support and encouragement. It's a reminder of just how fortunate I really am to be surrounded by such loving, special people who truly care about me and my kids. It's too bad my kids are missing out on these kinds of positive, affirming relationships in their life. I know from experience that their world is not like that. My neighbors also stopped over with their sons, both my son's age and we did a little shooting in the backyard this afternoon. Hunting season is coming up and we're all gearing up and helping the boys practice with their bows. I can't wait to get out and spend some time in the woods near my house. Maybe someday my son will want to come along. I know they would all get along great. The older one is a lot like my son, very into his sports (lacrosse) and a good student.

Hope he received and enjoyed his gifts this year. It gets harder and harder not knowing what he's into and what specifically he likes. There are a couple good movies out, the Dark Knight movie and the Bourne Legacy look good, so I thought he'd enjoy passes to go with a friend (since he won't let me take him...ha ha). I also got him team necklaces for the Mets and the Giants. Have you seen those colored rope necklaces all the baseball players are wearing this year? Those. They look pretty cool. I hope he'll wear them. Sent him a couple nice shirts for school and a football movie that we watched together years ago. If you've never seen Facing the Giants you have to see it, it's a great movie. We both love football movies and that's one you can watch with your kids and feel good about it.

Enjoy the rest of your birthday son ~ I love and miss you very much and will always always be here for you. I will never, ever, give up on us. My door will always be open, stop by or call any time. Love you Bucko...and no, you're not too old for that! :)