He's ten

Brandon is ten.  TEN.  Double digits.  Wow.  I am not much of a sentimental girl.  I don't cry when my kids start school or lose teeth or start walking.  My heart swells as I see them grow and progress.  But with Brandon actually growing up, I find myself struggling.  All of the previous milestones were safe.  I got to be right there watching.  Holding his hand.  Cheering for him.  I don't know what it is about this tenth birthday, but I feel like I'm officially beginning the process of letting him go.  Increasing his independence.  Trusting him more.

And it's strange.

And I'm not cheering.

I'm worrying.

Have we taught him everything he needs to know?  Will he make the right choices?  Even when we're not looking over his shoulder? Brandon is an amazing kid and I need to have more faith in him.  But it's going to take some time.  Thankfully, we still have some time.  Because the process of letting go will still take approximately eight years.  Phew.  Maybe I just need to chill.

Right now, Brandon's life revolves around BMX, skateboarding, Harry Potter, Magic the Gathering (a card game), peanut butter sandwiches, soccer, basketball, and video games.  He is still doing great in his piano lessons.  We love listening to him play.  He is smart, witty, helpful, strong-minded, athletic, faithful, and curious.  He finished his Bear requirements in cub scouts and has moved up to Webelos.

He still loves reading and devours books faster than I can.  He got to read Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix this summer.  Also enjoys the 39 Clues series and Peter and the Starcatchers.  He has yet to embrace the concept of sleeping in.  He's usually done with his breakfast before I even make it downstairs in the mornings.

Things are never quiet with Brandon around.

I can't imagine our family without him.

Love you, B-train!