Force of Spirit

Well. He did it. Jaden turned 17 today. I SWEAR to you I just barely hit "share" on my keyboard blogging a year ago about his cereal bowls. In case you're wondering, not much has changed in that department. In fact, Tanna and Tyson were sharing a good giggle at my expense the other day.

I had just got home from my it-was-so-wonderful-motorcycle vacation.
Tyson: You can sure tell when mom goes somewhere.
Tanna: Yeah. I know what you mean.
Tyson: The cereal cupboard is packed with cereal for Jaden.
They both giggle and laugh and guffaw.

Whatever. I like him best. So there.

Ah. Jaden. Sweet boy of mine. Who knew he would grow to be so tall and such a good-looking young man? Mark absolutely loves when Jaden brings a new girl here.

"Did you see her? Wow! She's a super model".
"Okay Mark, calm down, you're stuck with me"
"Oh yeah"

Thanks so much for the self-esteem boost. I needed it.

I, however, spend my time thinking "Are you a nice girl? Are you going to hurt my son? Don't do stupid I'm-a-16-year-old-imbecile things. Don't do it. Don't do it. DON'T DO IT."

Then they do something stupid and Jaden is left holding his heart. TOTALLY SUCKS.

Jaden has always been a force of spirit. I argued and argued and argued with the doctor that I wasn't pregnant. There is 9 years between Shelby and Jaden and HOW COULD THAT POSSIBLY HAPPEN? I went to the doc for heart problems and came home pregnant. I swear that poor doc does NOT get paid enough to put up with me.

I loved being a young mother. I fit right in with the other kids. I was able to hike and swim and run and fight with glee. This old mother stuff is a bit more difficult now-a-days. I can't run. I can't jump. (even if I could jump I'd pee my pants I'm sure of it - sorry Jaden.)  I rarely yell. Glee comes more often than not when I can get to bed before 10:00 pm.

However, I'm more calm and waaaaaaay more willing to listen and hear and feel and learn.

I am soooooooooooo very grateful that the doc was right. (Don't tell him though)

I just enrolled Jaden in boxing. I know. I know. He could get hurt. But he could rock this out, too. He needs to learn patience and discipline and I think a square arena just might be the answer. My son now boxes. With vigor.

Years ago I made shirts and shorts for the Easter-Bunny-came-to-town gifts. I ponder my projects at least 6 months before go-time. I want them to have meaning and be something each will wear. I watch my family. Take mental notes of successes and accomplishments and conversations. That year I decided that I wanted to "stamp" the article of clothing with an insignia that is unique to our family.  This is what I did:

That's where Jaden fits in. This kid is handsome (no doubt). However, that's not what makes him stand out in a crowd. The kid personifies confidence.  Jaden DOES NOT tolerate bullying of ANYONE. Pick on the smaller kid? You have Jaden to reckon with.

My kid is super smart and after graduation will be a force to reckon with in college or whatever field of work he decides to conquer. Knowing this kid, there will be many.

I remember when Tyson, Zach, Magnum and boys names I have since forgotten played soccer. Mitch (Zach's dad) was the coach. The soccer team took State with a vengeance. After the celebrations were concluded, Tyson hung up his cleats and never played again. "Why? It is SO fun to watch you play." His answer? "I've done everything I can do with it."

Jaden is that way. He studies and watches and becomes his passion. When he has done all he can do? No tears. No squalling. No stomping of feet or gnashing of teeth. He quietly moves on and places his intelligence and dedication in another area.

Jaden turned 17 today. There is so much time left. Time to learn and grow and become. He's got a lifetime left. Jaden's strength will carry him. It will carry his family. It will carry his friends. It will carry me.

Happy birthday, son.