Warning: Mushy Post! Happy Birthday College Boy

21 years ago today, the most creative project I've ever made came into the world. There was no Mod Podge or glitter or hot glue involved. There wasn't even any chocolate. Our baby, who's no longer a baby, was born.

It still doesn't seem possible that it's 21 years later and that he's officially an adult! He's been an old soul since the day he was born, always older than his chronological age in some ways and completely age appropriate in others.

We tried not to read too much into the fact that by all accounts I had an easy labor. My BFF never lets me forget that I delivered wearing earrings and even a little lipstick.

What did that mean for the days ahead? Turns out that pattern continued. Sure there were all the normal childhood boundary tests and moments of counting to 10 before saying something (us, not him). Even middle school, which I think is the hardest age as kids really test their boundaries in that limbo stage between being little kids and burgeoning maturity wasn't too bad. HS, we've since come to learn, was far more stressful than he ever let on (and from what we knew it was stressful enough), a testament to his very cool calm demeanor. We are still not sure where that comes from!

In college he's come completely into his own. From the nervous guy we left in front of his dorm ( and the parents who were a wreck in the car driving away) to the confident young man who still chooses to come home on breaks and hang out with his parents.

Whatever the future holds, we know he will meet any challenge head on with a smile, quiet confidence, and a focus on what's important. We've now entered the stage of parenting where the student is often the teacher.

Every parent feels like they couldn't be more proud of their child and we are no exception. It's been an amazing 21 years and we can't wait to see what lies ahead.

Happy Birthday College Boy!