Dear son,
As you told me, 16 means something. It is the first time you are handed one of those guarded ‘adult’ activities – driving a vehicle. You feel like you are really becoming yourself. I have always thought 16 was important and significant, and here we are on the doorstep of your 16th birthday.
What can anyone, or even your dad and I, tell you as you turn 16? Not much that you’ll likely hear right now, we know that. But maybe you’ll remember some of our words down the road, so we keep talking.
You, my boy turning man, are the delight of our lives. You constantly amaze us as you force your way through life, full tilt and full speed (except when it’s time for band at 7:30am of course…). Your skills, your curiosity, your perseverance all impress us. You have a big heart and big emotions; even when, or rather especially when, you think no one can see. We do.
I know it isn’t always easy to be you, to be the one marching to a tune only you know. But know that being true to who you are is in the end the only way to have a full and meaningful life. The people who like and love you knowing the real you are the ones you want to have around. They may not always be the easiest to have in your fierce, out-loud life, but they will be worth it. They will in turn make you a better you, enriching that tune to a sound track.
Be happy, be healthy, be safe, be truthful. The rest will come. Happy Birthday, kiddo ( I don’t care that you are now over 7 inches taller than me, you’re always my kiddo).
Love, Mom.
Rocks, Waves, Beach 
Happy Birthday!!! What a gorgeous photo of you both! Where on earth does the time go? I seem remember seeing pictures of your son when he was a young boy. We must have been blogging for a good few years! Enjoy the celebrations. Ros
By: snoopydogknits on March 14, 2016
at 1:10 pm
Thanks Ros!
By: Kate on March 20, 2016
at 11:26 am
What a great birthday letter to your son Kate! I’m glad to hear that bushboy is still marching to the beat of his own drum…as you say, it’s hard but it won’t be until later until he fully appreciates how important it was/is to stay true to self. These pictures make me realize just how long I’ve been reading your blog…he was ‘just a baby’ when I first started (not literally mind you), and now look at him…a young adult. I wish you peace and grace handling each additional transition (driving, eeek! has he got an eye toward a motorcycle like his dad??). ;)
By: Rachel on March 20, 2016
at 9:16 am
No motorcycle riding until he leaves home! Even his dad agrees with that one :)
By: Kate on March 20, 2016
at 11:27 am
This is such a lovely post, you got me all teary. A very happy birthday to your son and congrats mama on raising such a wonderful young man.
By: claire on April 6, 2016
at 5:31 am
Aw thanks Claire.
By: Kate on April 6, 2016
at 9:13 pm