We're All Adults.

     ​I was going to do this yesterday, but time slipped away, and before I knew it the day was heading closer to over than I had realized.  So, here I am, a day late and definitely more than a dollar short since the farmers market is still closed, but we’re all in this proverbial boat together.  Therefore, I write… 
     Yesterday was a joyously hard one.  Young’un isn’t so young anymore.  In fact, it’s official.  He’s an adult.  It’s hard to imagine, even with the vivid imagination I have, that we moved here when he was a 5-year-old on the cusp of 6 and yesterday he woke up to 18.  We were all so new back then.  New community, new friends, new adventures ahead.  Shoot, the past 12 years here have been one adventure after another, and I am so happy Young’un has been by my side to share in so many of them.  Frankly, it’s been a joy to have experienced so many things with Hon, Eldest, Kid, and Young’un.  I am a very happy and fulfilled mom. 
     Why, it truly doesn’t seem that long ago since he and I were out at the chicken coop that first year, watching them grow up and into laying eggs and crowing before the sun.  I’ll never forget when one of the roosters jumped on a hen and Young’un determined they were playing leapfrog.  For quite some time I’d hear him talk about how those roosters sure liked to play leapfrog. 
     He’s been by my side to watch animals being born, give care, and ease the passing of those who have died.  Together, Young’un and I have become beekeepers, learned how to make maple syrup, planted strawberries, and learned the basics of blacksmithing.  We’ve laughed, we’ve cried, and we’ve grown together.  I’m amazed we made it through learning to drive.  Seeing that look on his face a week ago when he put his nervousness aside and aced that driving test to earn his license made my heart full of pride for another accomplishment notch on his belt. 
     No, it’s not always been sunshine and rainbows.  When is it ever?  Of course, just like with his brothers, we’ve butt heads more times than I’d have liked…or will like…because I know it’ll happen again.  Even so, Young’un, like his brothers and my Hon, are my universe.  
     So, to you, my youngest, my Young’un, my Nicholas…on this second day of your adulthood, I wish you the sun and the moon.  I wish your dreams become reality and your life full and joyous.  Together, you, Will, Samuel, and your dad hold my heartstrings.  I’m your biggest fan and am here for you.  Love, Mom  

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