Today my first-born turns 30. REALLY? That sounds like someone else is saying it…
But yes, time has a way of speeding by, and they grow up so fast and all those cliches which I won’t bore you with.
Except… I am tempted to say that I remember, minute by minute, second by second, the moments leading to his birth and then the sights, smells, sensations and feelings at the moment of his birth…(should I add pain?)…like they were yesterday.
Cliches aside, I am so grateful to Jonathan for so many reasons.
- For making me a mom, something I thought was far beyond my reach after many years of trying to conceive.
- For filling me with love, wonder and adoration.
- For teaching me some techie-stuff (well, sort of).
- For enjoying cultural pursuits and surprising me with a birthday gift to the new Whitney Museum. “An experiential gift” is what he said. “The best day I spent in a long while,” is what I said.
- For taking the time, at said museum, to examine the wondrous art and even stand with me and discuss its merits and finer points (even though I can go on and on sometimes).
- For never getting a speeding ticket, arrested or thrown in jail, or suspended from school. (At least, I don’t think so).
- For being a good student, being interested in so many topics and making himself a well-rounded person.
- For being honest and reliable; steadfast and determined.
- For never being embarrassed to kiss his mom in public (still).
- For always saying “I love you” without prompting.
- For running numerous marathons (I’ve lost count) and doing the hard work to get there.
- For always working hard for whatever he wants.
- For becoming a very talented (and healthy!) cook and making me realize he was really paying attention all those years ago.
- For asking for my advice.
- For giving me his advice when asked.
- For growing up to be a person I’m proud to know.
- For letting me hug him like I did when he was a little boy and even pinching your cheeks once in a while.
- For loving a woman who is every bit as wonderful as he is.
- For loving his brother and being a real friend to him.
- For giving me at least twenty more reasons to be grateful.
More blubberring:
http://www.healthywomen.org/content/blog-entry/you%E2%80%99re-never-done-being-parent
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/sheryl-kraft/stretching-toward-light_b_6826326.html
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/sheryl-kraft/on-being-a-mother_b_4688864.html
Judy Freedman says
Sheryl, what a lovely post. I can see why you are so proud. I can’t believe my first born, a daughter, is also turning 30 this year.
Sheryl says
Thanks, Judy. Doesn’t 30 years pass so quickly?? TOO fast.
Cathy Lawdanskk says
My first born is turning 30 this year! Lovely post. Nice young man! What a blessing.
Lisa Froman says
Love! First of all, what a handsome young man. Yes, what is it about moms and sons? I so adore my grown son — my only child– and wished he lived closer to me. I can relate to your list ( except sometimes I do feel like my son needs “prompting” with the “I love yous.” Lol
Sheryl says
Thank you, Lisa! I’ve seen photos of your son and he is so handsome, too. I wish your son lived closer to you, too! I know that would make you so happy.
Tom Sightings says
My oldest is 32, so I can relate. Except mine is a girl, so there are a few differences. For example, my daughter doesn’t cook.
Sheryl says
Well, Tom, there’s always time to learn…you never know.
Lou says
Jonathan is a great kid and a smart, kind and self-sufficient adult in today’s society which is what every Mom dreams for. You are so blessed, but so is he that he had YOU to lead him in his journey to NOW. Great job, Sheryl…
xoxo
Rosalba Gordon says
How beautiful you put in writing your feelings, I can relate to them, point by point. Nothing can compare with the love for our children, and having good ones like Jonathan and Jeremy is a blessing.
Sheryl says
Thank you, Rosa. You have a very special son yourself!