8-Year-Old Love Letter

My sweet Owen,

I love the 8-year-old you. 

Two years ago I bought you a backpack, packed you a lunch and sent you off to kindergarten. When you confidently climbed on the bus that September morning I thought our weekdays together were something of the past. That expectation was crushed along with many others in 2020. And now here you are, rocking virtual school in the comfort of our home. Wes is attending in person so it's you, Hazel and I during the week. 

As much as we would have all preferred a more typical year, having you home has been an unexpected gift. You have been working hard, responsible and independent doing your virtual learning. With the beginning of second grade, you matured exponentially overnight. You have a fantastic teacher and are making steady academic progress. I enjoy being more involved in your schooling and seeing exactly what and how your teachers instruct you. You've always loved to be home and have truly thrived being remote. Your progress in reading took a real hit in first grade but you've quickly gotten back on track this fall. You love being read to and are becoming a more confident reader on your own. The 13 Story Tree House and Dog Man series have been your most recent favorites. Math comes easily to you. A loving and encouraging teacher is critical to your success. 

In your 7th year, you learned to longboard and wake surf. You discovered Pokemon and Minecraft. Snack plates full of candy are your special thing and you love making them for the family. You get super excited about things and have a hard time waiting. Once a project has started you often lose interest quickly. You love to shop. As the oldest, your mood generally sets the tone for the day. You're still a snuggle bug and need time to connect. You're thoughtful, sensitive and tenderhearted. 

Out of necessity, I've started leaving you home alone for short periods of time. When I first suggested it, you were apprehensive. You told me you weren't comfortable with it and asked if I could drive around the neighborhood for a few minutes so you could see how it felt. I love your intuition and ability to express what you need. I did the neighborhood drive, set you up with a safety plan, and you loved it. Now you tell me I'm free to leave you home alone whenever. Another responsibility and right of passage checked off the list. 

Spending almost every day of the summer with the neighbors you have learned a lot about friendship. You told me one evening that "all friends get in fights sometimes." You've had your share of frustrations and managed it work it out. You've remained neutral when Chris and Ryan are at odds and took a stand when people were getting left out. When there is conflict you perseverate on it and really try to understand why people are acting the way they are. You're doing Jujitsu twice a week and it feels like a natural sport for you.

You strive to be a leader and do the right thing. The extra time at home this past year gave you space to continue building your character influenced by our family values and not cultural norms. I pray that as you continue to grow, you know deep in your soul that you are worthy of love and belonging. As humans we are hardwired for struggle and life won't always be easy. But come what may, we are here to love you, cheer for you and see the best in you. Being your mama is the most sacred gift I've ever been given and I am more grateful for you with every passing year. 

Happy Birthday, my sweet Owen! May year eight be truly great.

xoxo,

Your loving mama