I can’t believe that we have another child entering the world of “adulthood”.

My baby Josh is turning 18. Crazy. CRAZY.

This is a weird year to turn 18 and it has been a weird year all around. Not quite the graduating senior year that I think he imagined. But I think Josh has made the most out of it all – he has a really nice group of friends and they have managed to create some pretty fun times despite COVID days.

That can start as the first thing I will write out of the 18 things I admire most about this little bunny of mine:)

• He has made the best out of a strange year. He hasn’t complained much, just kind of rolled with thing. Josh can be very very stubborn, but he can also be super easy going and chill -especially with his friends.

• He is a great friend. He is fun, loyal, and kind. When he had his appendix out – his buddies all biked to the hospital to bring him a card and a drink even though they couldn’t seem him due to COVID restrictions. They told him that he was with them in spirit as they biked through the city as they did very night this past summer

• He is smart. Ahhh… “if only he applied himself”. Josh is a naturally smart guy. he picks up on so many things. I often think he’s not listening – but then will reflect it back later. I can’t wait until he “applies himself ” more, lol.

• He is very empathetic and compassionate. He is a sensitive guy and I have noted that despite his chill exterior, his compassion runs deep.

• He is also quite insightful. There have been a few times this past year where he has shared some observations with me and I have been very impressed with his level of awareness and insight.

• He gives the best hugs. I don’t even have to beg him for them! He gives them and they are solid!

• He is a sporty guy. This has been a tough year with regards to all sports being cancelled. It has really really sucked. But, despite official leagues being cancelled, Josh has found a way to get out there daily and exercise and play sports – whether it be basketball, football, shinny or even just biking! He gets out to move.

• He loves to travel and is fun to travel with! Although we are seriously bummed because we had delayed his 16 trip and were planning on going this spring – but with COVID that has been cancelled too. We will definitely find a time to make it up – it is top priority (for me at least lol – he’s realistically content being with his friends lol).

• He is super funny. He makes us laugh all the time! He brings a fun energy into the house!

• He is a good brother. There is something about when all the kids are together. There is a certain energy and bond that truly warms my heart.

• He is his own person. He is who he is wherever he is. You know what you are getting with Josh. There is no pretending!

• He is fiercely independent. Try giving this kid a ride. He does not need it. He likes to do things on his own (even through it would be easier if his mama helped him, lol!!)

• He reminds me so much of my Dad!! So many times he says things and it’s like my dad has said them. He also loves to walk – and walk alone everywhere – helps him clear his mind and think.

• He has a strong sense of commitment. If he’s in, he’s all in. You can count on him.

• He can be super silly and when he is his beautiful smile comes out.

• He loves loves loves his sweets. He will take dessert anytime, any place.

• He is a good storyteller. But you have to catch him in the mood to tell stories. He is super quiet in the mornings (and a touch grumpy, just sayin’) but if you catch him later on, he will sometimes share stuff with you.

• I mentioned before that he is sensitive – and that is a part I love as a mama. He remembers the good stuff, can be nostalgic, will allow me to sometimes go down memory lane with him. He’ll let me mother him too – sometimes. He’ll listen to me, tell me I have no clue what I am talking about and then move on.

Boy, do I love this kid. I love him exactly as he is right now, but I am also super excited to see the kind of future he will create for himself. It’s going to be true awesome – just like he is:)

Happy 18th Birthday Josh!!

xox