More than a few years ago, I had life’s sweetest experience. My best friend became pregnant for the first time. It was one of the most fun times of my life. Everything from the “no gender reveal/gender neutral” nursery, baby showers, baby names, and general anticipation made this so much fun. I’ve never had a child of my own so this was the closest I had ever been to the process. I got to be a birthing coach, amidst many raised eyebrows, and I was there when the epidural was given.
Through the first many years of Austin’s life I was there for everything. I remember rocking him to sleep when he couldn’t sleep, turning up the TV louder when he couldn’t. All of my Super Nanny bed time strategies were ready, and I loved our quiet moments in the nursery when I was there to put him to sleep. That was so many years ago.
We danced to the Backyardigans, sang “Kung Fu Fighting ” before he knew words, and Lionel Ritchie’s “Hello” just so we could hear him say “I love you.” I’ve watched him grow in so many ways since then.
We tried Tball (unsuccessfully), soccer, basketball, and acting. Saturday games were always followed by Chik Fil A. As a child, just like mom and dad, he never met another child he didn’t get along with. So compassionate, kind, and God centered. Through it all we have always had fun together, playing games, watching movies, even now when we only see each other a few times a year.
Today I watched him, 15 years old, perform as Marius in Les Miserables. His voice that no longer of the child I once knew, but of the man he is becoming. I could not be more proud.
joyfulwritinglife 
How lovely.! I particularly enjoyed the way you built up your recollections from infancy until he appears unexpectedly so grown up!
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How lovely.! I particularly enjoyed the way you built up your recollections from infancy until he appears unexpectedly so grown up!
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I love this slice. I did not expect him to be so grown up. What a special relationship you have with him.
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I’m really lucky. I don’t get to see him much because he is always busy when I get to visit with mom.
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How beautiful! What a special relationship you two share. He is lucky to have you in his life. ❤️ Thanks for sharing this transition through time with us.
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What a lovely piece! Relationships like this are priceless! You did a great job of revealing the bond the two of you share.
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Thanks for sharing. I love that most of your slice focuses on him as a small child. I wonder if that’s how you’ll always see him.
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Precious! You have had such good times together and you share so much love. What a joy to see him grow so much and so well.
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A lovely relationship shared. You have been part of his birth, childhood and have good memories and now he is all grown up.
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That smile! He may have grown, but that smile is the same!
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What a special relationship! You will always be that special someone to him. I’m glad you got to share this day with him.
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What a treasure to get to play such a special role in his life!
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Are you kidding me? I’m crying tears of joy for the two of you! What a sweet post. So glad you are family with that young man.
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Such a sweet post! Thank you for sharing.
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