14

My son has been such a blessing. He's a good kid - Respectful, kind, generous, talented and fun. He and I can giggle for hours over things that nobody else seems to think is that funny. He's never had trouble holding my hand, hugging, cuddling or kissing me in public. Until now. He's 14 and a half. He's going to high school in a few short months. He's getting taller. He's growing up.

It started last week when he told me that I don't have to tuck him into bed anymore. I LOVE tucking my kids into bed. It's the best 2 - 30 minutes of my day. It's the only time that I really get to spend with each of them one on one. I listen to their prayers. We talk about important stuff and silly stuff. We make plans for the next day. I tell them how much I love them and always leave their rooms with a smile on my face. Now he just gives me a quick hug and says goodnight and he's off to his room, sets his alarm, closes the door and turns off his light.
By himself.

Then there was the "I think it's time for me to go and live with Dad" conversation that we had this past weekend. I'm not sure that he completely meant it because he didn't fight very hard when I told him that it was NOT going to happen. But still, He said the words.

He's also been spending more time in his room lately behind closed doors. Yesterday I knocked and then entered. Think American Pie. I'm Eugene Levy. Enough said.

My baby is growing up. All of a sudden Mom's not needed (or wanted) anymore. I guess over the next few years I'll have to start letting go. He needs his privacy, his independence. He's still a good kid. I'm very proud of the young man he's become. And yet, I miss my little boy.