You Only Turn 17 Once

I knew waking up yesterday morning that it was going to be a BIG day.

It was this little man’s 17th birthday.

Seventeen years ago this precious boy came into our lives. He’s been melting this mom’s heart since the first time I laid eyes on him. I’ve never met such a boy like Zach. Someone who is mild-mannered, yet passionate about the things he believes in. He’s a well-balanced boy young man. (Smile.)

We make birthdays a big deal in our home. We always have, and if I have anything to say about it, we always will. Yesterday, kept that tradition.

–After all, you only turn 17 once.–

Zach woke up to balloons all over his bedroom floor, and just-out-of-the-oven, homemade chocolate chip muffins for breakfast. Before leaving for school, he opened one of his gifts. In between his school day and soccer practice last evening, the four of us celebrated a meal together at the restaurant of his choice…Panchero’s.

After he arrived home from practice late last night, he was surprised to find his adorable girlfriend here and dessert waiting for him…a chocolate chip cookie cake, sugar cookies and ice cream. The poor guy was too tired to eat any of it. He opened his gifts, spent some time with us, then collapsed in bed.

I continue to be amazed by this son of ours. I am so, so very proud of him. He is kind, compassionate, generous and loving. He works hard at all he does, whether it’s school work and studying, or show choir, or soccer, or helping his dad or me, or playing on his xbox. (Smile.) He gives 100%. His homeroom teacher even made that comment during school conferences this week. He’s outgoing, polite, and funny. He is gracious and thankful. He thanks his mom often for what she does for him. That melts my heart.

I look forward with anticipation to what God has planned for Zach’s future. I know it’s going to be great. This proud mom will be cheering him on every step of the way.

Again, Happy Birthday, Buddy! Your momma loves you!