Happy birthday, Ben!
Something about 11 seems older. You learned about prime numbers not too long ago, and now here you are, PRIME. I’m sure you just rolled your eyes at me, but I know deep down you like my cheesy jokes. Regardless, my bad jokes are better than the ones you made up for years. I’m glad to be out of that season with you!
You love to make people laugh. I know sometimes I get annoyed because your timing is off (hello, bedtime), but I do see your humor and love of people as a gift you give. You always want to know what we’re doing next, not wanting to miss out on anything. When I pick you up in the afternoon, you’re always the first to ask about my day and what we’re having for dinner. Of course, then you prep yourself to eat enough dinner that you usually don’t care about so you can get ice cream afterward.
I can’t figure out how you usually win Skyjo, Trash Pandas, and Exploding Kittens – all card games that involve some strategy and a lot of luck. It’s true, though, you’re the lucky one. Of course, I’m the lucky one too because even if you beat me in card games, I get to be your mom.
You’ve always liked to be on the move, now that happens on the soccer field, basketball court, hoverboard, or four-wheeler. You can spend hours searching for treasures around our pond, in the creek, or I the woods. You’re quick to invite someone to join you, wrestle your little sister, and want to watch a science experiment video.
You’ve challenged me more than the girls, but I’ve learned so much about myself and the world through you. I’m my best when I’m carefree and spontaneous like you. I enjoy the world more when I’m not afraid to take things apart, make my own way, and ask questions like you. I’m thankful you’ll still snuggle me, eventually tell me what you’re feeling, and want to live with me forever.
We celebrated your birthday with a few school friends yesterday and homemade breakfast tacos this morning. While making s’mores yesterday, you roasted one so much it caught on fire and we sang “Happy Birthday” to you while you blew it out. Truly, that fit you perfectly. The celebrations are continuing. You chose tonight’s dinner: chicken fajitas and baked potatoes. Plus we are taking a Dairy Queen ice cream cake to Thanksgiving with one side of the family and having another small party next weekend with the other side of the family. We’re spreading out the birthday love because 2020 is a weird year, but everybody still wants to celebrate you, my boy.
I love you, Momma.
Look back on Ben’s life: 1 year old. 2 years old. 3 years old. 4 years old. 5 years old. 6 years old. 7 years old. 8 years old. 9 years old. 10 years old.
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