Today, you are no longer a child, but a man. That’s hard for me to wrap my mind around, given it seems like just a few days ago you were just a little boy, running up to me for a hug with your sweet little voice and boundless energy.
Parenting you has been the ride of a lifetime. I wouldn’t trade it or give up a second I’ve spent with you, worrying about you, loving you, arguing with you. It’s been 18 years of pure emotion: love, joy, worry, anger, frustration, terror.
Follow your dreams. Never give up on something you desperately want. Ever. Don’t make the same mistakes I’ve made in life.
I want great things for you. You are loved and all things good in my heart. When you hurt, I hurt. When you have joy, I have joy. Of all the things in my life that I might have, could have or should have done differently, there’s one thing I’d never change, and that’s having you guys as sons… If I didn’t always find a way to say it, I hope I always showed it – I’m proud to be your parent and I love you with my heart and soul.
Happy 18th Birthday My Baby Boy. I love you…forever.
Thinking Out Cloud 