Dear Ben,
What a year it has been... what a whirlwind of up and down changes in your life... and oh what fun!
I really can't remember parts of this time last year. I just remember riding in the car after you visited a private school and you being so excited to start something new. I had hoped it wouldn't be just the newness of somewhere else, or the fact there were lots more things to do, or the idea that you would be closer to Clemson... and then we visited Woodruff... and it was the same thing. The ride home in the car with you and Sis made my heart smile more than ever. Sure, we were sad, but we were so excited to be starting over too!
You were such a big help moving us. You and Daddy took care of so many things that KB and I couldn't do. You packed, unpacked, organized, and "ordered" us around~ your wife will be happy about that one day. You showed us how to fix the sprinkler system, mow the grass with lines, fix the light under the microwave, and many more things.
The first day of school you were nervous, but I knew you would do just fine. It's your personality... you walk into a room and hide all those fears. I'm proud you have that trait. As I watched you play football, I was so proud you were part of a program that values and morals are promoted over football skills. You learned those skills, but your coaches were phenomenal in teaching you how to be a man. I'm happy for the friends you made, and I'm happy that your coach led you back to the Bible devotionals. I'm also happy about his choice of music!
We have also been graced this year with "health" class.... Your daddy will never be the same after our supper conversations... You make me laugh...and when you make Daddy speechless...it's even better! KB and I laughed until we cried listening to you explain the facts of life.
You have done great in school so far! I'm glad you care about your grades... I'm glad you study... and I'm glad you know how important it is to do well in school.
This morning we are rushing out the door to see you play basketball. I would love to say that you got those athletic abilities from me... but I know better. I can't help but think the PaPa is watching you from above. He loved you so much! Last weekend you had all the grandparents here to see you, and you made me proud. I know they were happy too!
For your birthday this year, you chose to go to Arizona Steakhouse. I'm glad you let Sis and me be a part of the celebration... I shouldn't remind you that you really didn't want us girls going. In the car on the way home you said two things I want to remember...
1. As we rode by the vet's office, I reminded you and KB that it was at that vet's office that Suki got her "heater" taken out... and as soon as I said it, I knew I was going to have to explain what it was. BUT... I didn't it... You said, "Do you mean she had her uterus taken out?"... and I told you yes... you said, "That's just a part of life, Mama"... Yep, Buddy, it is...
2. The other thing that I'm giggling about is you asking KB and Matt about how to hold hands in the car... there was a brief demonstration and a few questions about should you ask the girl to hold her hand or just grab her hand... Oh my goodness. I'm not sure I'm ready for all this.
You have always had a heart of gold... you love the girls, but I'm thinking now that you are a teenager I need to lock you up in your room.
I love you Benny Boo Boo... you are precious... and still as beautiful as the day you were born. I hope this first year of being a teenager is great for you! You are adorable with your short hair, braces, and even some beginning acne. As you said last night, "That's just part of life".
I'm so glad you call me Mama... I'm so glad you are part of me... I'm so glad to share this birthday with you.
Love,
Mama
