Matthew's Big Day!!!

Do you ever look at your kids and wonder how they got so big?   My little man turned nine today and it seems like just yesterday I was doing mommy and baby swimming lessons with him.

In the insanity of day to day life, I do remember to tell Matthew how much he is loved, but today I want to make sure our family takes the necessary time is celebrate the person he is.  Sunday we held his birthday party.   Eighteen boys including him, played a road hockey tournament organized by Matthew.   We had four teams, coloured t-shirts with the boys names and favourite numbers displayed, music, lunch, and a Gogo's cake.  Matthew exclaimed that "It was the BEST party ever!"

As I reflect on my little guy, some of the many things I love about Matthew are his:

~ enthusiasm and passion
~ friendliness and sociability
~ love of organizing events - hmm, I wonder where he got that ;)
~ boundless energy (although I look forward to the day when he will sleep past 5:45am)
~ innocence and sense of wonder
~ fierce determination (some might call stubbornness)
~ need for security

Recently I have noticed him trying to assert some independence.  Even this morning when I suggested that go to WhiteSpot for his birthday dinner, he replied "I don't like WhiteSpot anymore" which I don't really think is true, as our family always goes there for numerous celebrations and he likes the food.   Instead, I believe it was another example of him trying to establish independence and suggesting we do things 'his' way.  I must admit, I am finding this stage tough and unfortunately I have engaged in a few power struggles with him.  Parenting a strong willed child is not easy...  I must remember that this too shall pass.

As I tuck him in tonight I am going to read the book Only One You to him by Linda Kranz.  I was reminded of it yesterday and have read it to him before - but today I think it will mean a little more as he is older.  Plus, I don't think children can ever hear a good story/advice too many times.

The book has beautiful illustrations and shares a story about a little fish whose parents try to impart some wisdom on their child.

Always be on the lookout for a new friend.
Look for beauty wherever you are, and keep the memory of it with you.
Blend in when you need to.  Stand out when you have the chance.
Find your own way.  You don't have to follow the crowd.
Know when to speak; know when to listen.
No matter how you look at it, there is so much to discover.
If you make a wrong turn, circle back.
If something gets in your way, move around it.
Set aside some quiet time to relax and reflect every day.
Appreciate Art.  It's all around you!
Make wishes on the stars in the nighttime sky.
There is only one you in this great big world.
Make it a better place!