Whoops.
He is indeed 16, as of a few weeks ago.
My first kid is six feet tall. He’s going to learn how to drive. He’s going to take college classes.
And I’m all, “Whoa, this is not possibly happening because I’m pretty sure I’m still in my 20s. Right? Right? No? Oh, well, okay then…..”
(As it turns out, I’m actually 37, which is exactly 16 years older than I was when Joshua was born. Funny how that works.)
You know how when you have toddlers, random people love to rain on your life by telling you that the worst is yet to come, and just wait until they’re teenagers and then you will really be hating life?
Well, I’m here to say that my teenagers (I’ve got two so far) have been at least as delightful as their toddler selves. And usually much more delightful. 😉
I mean, there are some challenges with teens (It’s not like you have to do geometry with toddlers, so there’s that.), but it’s pretty lovely when your children start turning into interesting people that you want to hang out with.
Joshua’s thoughtful, he’s a good big brother to his trio of sisters, he’s kind to small friends and cousins, he’s a great artist, he’s a faithful member of our church band (I’d be in trouble without him!), he loves God, and he still doesn’t think he’s too cool to hang out with his parents.
So. The doomsdayers were wrong. 😉
Mahshid
Thursday 24th of September 2015
Happy Birthday to him! You should really be proud of him! Although he is so because of you raising him that way, but he also has a very great spirit! Good Luck to him on the path ahead!
isabelle
Thursday 24th of September 2015
""You know how when you have toddlers, random people love to rain on your life by telling you that the worst is yet to come, and just wait until they’re teenagers and then you will really be hating life?""
Ahah, I have A 3 yo and a 5 yo, and I do get that from time to time. Whatever, I don't care. Not all teenagers turn craaaaaazy hey! They will be what they will be, and we will deal with it, positive or negative. So far so good!
Nancy
Wednesday 23rd of September 2015
Happy Birthday to Joshua! The years do go so fast - my older son graduated college in the spring and has just started a real adult job! His brother is a junior in college - I can't figure out how this happened because I certainly haven't gotten older!
Julie@frugallyblonde.com
Wednesday 23rd of September 2015
Happy B-day to Josh! My kiddo is turning 14 this week. Even he said it seems he shouldn't be 14. He said he is scared of turning into a scary teenager. Which is hopefully a good sign that he won't become one! ;)
Kristen
Wednesday 23rd of September 2015
I'd say so! I bet he'll be fine.
K D
Wednesday 23rd of September 2015
Happy Birthday to Joshua. I too have been reading your blog for years and I find it hard to believe he is old enough to learn to drive. I have a hard time fathoming kids younger than my 19 year old being so grown up.
Three cheers to you and Mr. FG for your awesome parenting.
p.s. Joshua is handsome as all get out (and I love the joy in his smile/whole being).
Kristen
Wednesday 23rd of September 2015
Yeah, I'm a little, "Wut." about him being old enough to drive too. Oy.