Just Us Tryin’ to Keep Up!
Dear Jackson,
The “baby” of the grandbabies isn’t a baby anymore! We’ve got a first-grader on our hands, and today you’re seven years old! Seriously feels like yesterday that you were toddling along and sporting knots on your head from all sorts of stunts gone awry. You’re still sporting the occasional “adventure injury,” but toddling is definitely in your rearview mirror – replaced by running, biking, jumping, and the usual “boy” shenanigans.
On the journey from six to seven, you’ve picked up some new skills. You played in your first organized basketball league and couldn’t seem to get enough playing time. You loved it! Then it was on to baseball, and now soccer is on the horizon. You play hard, and you crash hard – a talent I seem to remember your dad having at your age.
You’re a big fan of whatever sport or activity your sisters are involved with. Volleyball, theater, cheer – you name it, Jack’s there. Maybe only because you’re literally along for the ride, but you manage to make the most of it and entertain the folks on the sidelines as well.
Less adrenaline-inspired games also interest you. I’m thinking that card shark gene came from your mom. You love board games, especially ones that are more strategy-based than luck-based. That would explain why you always beat me. Like any seven-year-old, you’re also into video and arcade games – when allowed, of course.
You and Dad are sports watching buddies, and you’re already spouting sports trivia (ahem, soccer trivia) to anyone who’ll listen. Your love for books continues to grow, and you’re always up for trying new foods. Beyond new flavors, this year also held a surprise dad/son road trip to a World Cup game, losing your first tooth, Cali summer vacation memories with the family, and a few shorter road trips thrown in just for fun. And boy, did you bring the fun!
But I have a personal favorite of “big events” in your life. Last month at Milly Camp, as your sisters, cousins, and I talked about heaven, you decided you want to go to heaven, too, and you said “yes!” to Jesus! When your mom asked you about your decision, you told her Jesus was your Boss. Well, okay, I guess that’s one way to look at it, but you weren’t wrong! I’m so excited that we’ll get to be with Jesus and each other in heaven forever!
Meanwhile, back here on earth, Papa and I will enjoy every single minute we get to spend with you. We love watching you grow into the role of “keeper of the garden” and making sure that others around you feel seen and cared for. You bring the loudest laughs, the biggest hugs, and the widest smiles. You’re learning to live out 1 Corinthians 16:14 – “Let all that you do be done in love.” Keep up the good work, buddy! Happy birthday - #7!
Always loving you with all of my heart,
Milly
