I am thankful for Wally.
Of course, I am thankful for all of my family, but today is Wally's birthday, so he gets a special shout out.
Wally is an adult now, but it in some ways, it seems like it was only yesterday when he joined our family. He was born in New Orleans after a complicated trip to the hospital and a confusing labor. He had a full head of dark hair and was the sweetest and calmest baby--for about 24 hours. Then our world changed. He slept little, ate voraciously, and cried most of the time inbetween. He still eats a lot and sleeps little. Thank goodness the crying finally died down.
As time progressed, he grew into a very active and curious boy who liked to see how things worked. One time, when he was three, Wally took apart Theo's crib when both of them were supposedly taking a nap. Luckily, no one was hurt as the bed collapsed around his brother. Another time, he took the bathroom door off it's hinges. He, also, loved to build things. Unfortunately, it never seemed to be anything he took apart.
Wally thinks about people and what makes them happy. When he was four, he asked us if poor people were happy. That was a hard one to explain to a four year old. As he grew older, he seemed to have a special appreciation for the senior population. Everyone on both sides of the family was especially thankful for the help he gave his grandparents while they were learning to use computers. He was patient, clear and never got frustrated. He showed these same abilities when he worked as a pharmacy tech when he was first out of school.
Growing up, Wally loved being outdoors and never met a stick or rock he didn't like. That was a perfect fit for Boy Scouts and he eventually became an Eagle Scout. As is his nature, he took his oath very seriously and tried to live up to it. Except when he didn't, because after all he is human. But I won't go into that right now.
Now as an adult, Wally is an independent, productive member of society who tells me not only is he happy, he is content. What more could a parent ask for? Nothing.
Happy Birthday, Wally!
Happy birthday! Will there be a celebration for Wally? A little cake and/or ice cream is a mood enhancer. :)
ReplyDeleteIsn't it interesting how you start to see your child's characteristics early on? I'm sure there were moments when his predisposition to take things apart made you crazy, but you could already see where his interests were.
While your kids are growing up, you never know if they're just in a phase or that's just how they're wired. Hindsight is great to put it all in context.
DeleteWe will not be getting together with Wally because of restrictions, but of course we sang happy birthday to him over the phone. We, also, sent him cookies from his favorite bakery for his birthday "cake".
Things are good here. Very good compared to many, but today is one of those days I'm a little sad that I can't see my son.
Many happy returns of the day to Wally! He sounds like he was a bit of a handful when growing up! Probably kept you on your toes! But, it's good to know that our adult children are happy and contented, isn't it? I'm sorry you couldn't see him, today, but, glad you were able to wish him on the phone and send him cookies in lieu of a birthday cake. :)
ReplyDeleteHe was a very active child only to be surpassed by his brother. It was a challenge to keep up with either or both of them.
DeleteI am thankful every day that my kids grew into the adults they did. I imagine you feel the same way about your daughter.
Happy birthday, Wally! When I saw the newborn pic at the top, I thought you got a new grand baby!
ReplyDeleteNope. No grandbabies yet and none on the horizon.
DeleteLovely tribute to your son. Contentment is often overlooked and it really the most important thing!
ReplyDeleteYou're right. I was mostly thinking in the lines of just happiness until he told me he was also content. Something I need to work a little more on.
DeleteYou raised a great kid to become a great adult! It's a relief to me, to see and hear of such great young people, who will take over the world's future.
ReplyDeleteThere are a lot of very good people out there. While there are always problems, I think we are well set for the future.
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