Drew's birthday letter, Age 7

Dear Drew,

My, have you grown up a lot this year! I have to say, turning seven is a big year. You are not a little kid anymore. You've moved into the big kid spot and it shows. In some ways you are really showing your Stivers boy stripes. You are go, go, go all the time. Always trying to one up the gross factor, or the obnoxious noise factor, or the body-slam-your-sisters factor. What do I mean by Stivers stripes? Well, let me be honest, your dad and his brothers were known in childhood for being a bit rowdy when they got together. Well, who am I kidding? They are still known for getting rowdy when they get together. Grandma's lamps and furniture and ceiling fans can attest to this fact. Anyway, you don't have brothers to get wild with, so you try to toughen up your sisters and needle them into firework reactions. It's what you do when you're bored. The thing is Drew, you do not know your own strength and power. I have recently been on a mission to help you stop jumping on people full force or body slamming small people to the ground. You don't realize it, but one of these days, you're going to break someone and that sweet, sensitive heart you have will be broken. Why don't we try having a more gentle touch? It'd be good for you all around.

Speaking of your sensitive heart, I should really not go this whole birthday letter without mentioning it in more detail. Despite your rough and tumble ways, you really do have such a kind heart for others. This weekend you were hand making your valentines for your classmates. First of all, you were given the choice of hand making valentines or store bought and you chose to make each one for your classmates. Anyway, you spent time on each one thinking of each friend and what they like while making them their own personal card. That is such a thoughtful, kind way to be, Drew. I hope that you remain so thoughtful as you grow.

Every night at bedtime I tuck you in and we have a snuggle. I'm not sure how much longer I'm going to have this time with you, but I cherish it. Every night during this time I ask you what your favorite part of the day was. And every night you tell me one good thing about your day and then you tell me, "This. This is my favorite part of the day. What was your favorite?' Not only do you make my eyes misty with your answer about how snuggling with your mom is your favorite, but you are also sweet enough to extend your kindness by asking me about my day. That is a very lovely example of you being such a kind, grown up kid. It's nice of you to ask me about my day. Thank you.

So, mushy with the birthday letter again this year. What can I say? I have great kids that are easy to love. I will continue to enjoy being your mom (on the days that you've gotten enough sleep!). You are growing into a fine young man and I am so proud of you.

 

 

Love,
Mom