Retrospective: Seventeen

It was crazy to be back to work two full week's before this boy's birthday.  I remember so well the night of August 27th in 2007, when I was 5 days overdue and so restless that I decided I would report for the first day of school the next day if I still wasn't in labor.  And this boy took that as his cue to finally get a move on... 

Between school busyness and Jack's lack of interest in large gatherings, birthday celebrations were simple this year. A festive gift table and dinner with just the four of us, then some time trying out his new driver out in the yard (the new driver which would then be exchanged. Twice.  because once this boy knows what he wants he is very particular and certain...)

This cute kiddo of mine.  Who towers over me.  Who worked all summer at Cumberland and who has a girlfriend and who is an AP Scholar of Distinction.  Who is so ery grown up. 

I love it when I look at him and see the same impish grin he gave me at 18 months old.  The little side smirk, the twinkling eyes.  Still my little boy.  Still absolutely himself all the time and in all the ways...

At seventeen Jack is inscreasingly considerate, well spoken and kind, but with a quick dry wit always at the ready. His love for video games is deep and abiding but thanks to work, friends, school and Vivian (his sweet girlfriend) he's out being social busy far more often than we ever would have expected from the little introvert he once was.  He is still good friends with his crew from seventh grade and I love that for him.  He's also a very good driver and is taking his sister to school this year.  He is becoming a very good writer and is excelling in his classes. He is enjoying taking art, and remains committed to swimming.  He's still a softie for animals.  he still teases his sister (but more gently these days).  He still says I love you and gives us hugs.  He still waits til the last minute to decide things and do them. Luckily, after seventeen years of getting to know this child, I am no longer worried about that, because I know once he does a thing he will do it well.   My bright and capable boy.  One more year with him at home... I am soaking up that sweet smile evey chance I get, though those chances are few and far between with his busy life.  He is doing the thing, growing up and separating from us.  I am trying to do the thing where I support him absolutely and love him with every one of my cells and also let him be free to go and thrive and shine in the world...

At seventeen, Jack is my Jackie-bear, the baby who took my sleep and made me a momma, the toddler who tested my patience and charmed it all back, the little boy who took my breath away with his brilliance,  and the young man who makes my heart swell with pride...

Happy birthday, my sweet, smart, wonderful son.