Eleven

How can it be that eleven years have rushed silently by and our once small son now stands a young man? That tiny, precious baby who came quietly into the world and made each moment of my life better just by being in it. Those early years filled with firsts, small miracles as simple as smiles, giggles, new words and wonder. Every day with our sweet Buckley has been a blessing and each moment a gift. 

I am convinced that no one on this crazy earth loves their birthday more than our sweet Buck. He relishes his BIG day, taking in the moments as they mysteriously unfold from sun-up to sun-down. The journey actually began on Sunday after church, when we went to my mom's house for a lovely lunch and surprise birthday gathering for Buck.

This morning, the BIG day kicked-off as Buck tiptoed into our dark bedroom with an excited but hushed, "Good morning, Mom." I tried to clear my eyes to see the clock...4:20 AM. I scooted over so he could lay down on the edge of the bed, under the warm covers. We whispered a little to each other as he willed each painfully early minute into the next, until finally the black sky turned a dark blue. 

The rest of the family woke at 6 and Buck eagerly dug into his birthday gifts, sitting in wait by the fireplace. The day was now in full swing and Buck was aglow with birthday joy. I picked up his favorite lunch along with some cup cakes for his class while his dad and I met him at school for the customary birthday lunch. Bashfully, he came over to share our special tradition at school as his classmates looked on. Clearly, they knew this day was special to him.

We all cleared our afternoon schedules so we could finish up homework and head out to an early dinner together. His Nana made the drive to our side of town and met us for Buck's special night. We lingered over the meal, not wanting to rush the moment. They brought him a birthday brownie, complete with a candle and we watched as he swallowed each happy bite.

With his day winding down, I saw a little sadness in his eyes as we all got ready for bed. We didn't do a party this year, at least not yet, so for now the big day must end. It's been a good one, with lots of phone calls, messages and texts along with cards and gifts from family and friends, all celebrating the life of a very special boy with a heart as big as the moon.

Happy 11th birthday, my sweet son, you're a great man! God has great plans for your life and I'm so honored to be part of the journey. I love you to infinity and beyond, to the moon and back, forever and always....Mom

Comments

[Sylvie]

Dear Buckley, we wish you a very, fantastic, wonderful, late birthday. You deserve the best.

Happy B-day,
The Masellas
xxxxx

[KC]

Happy Birthday from all of us, Buck! We love you Buddy.

Hey Buckley, happy b-day. I hope it was fun, wish I could've been there. Snoopy has been a mad dog. I have scars on my arms! I'll see you next time, probably at your house.
Cooper

[S]

Thank you, Sylvie, KC and Coop...Buck loved reading your well-wishes and appreciated your thoughtfulness. As you know, the time goes too fast....enjoy each moment!