Dear Buddy,
I affectionately call you “Buddy” because that’s how I see you—my sweet little boy with those big, bright eyes that remind me of chocolate chip cookies.
Happy Birthday! You’re growing up so fast. Just a couple of weeks ago, you were shorter than me, and now you’ve shot up past my height. Your faint mustache is adorable, and your voice is in that transitional phase, reminiscent of Peter Brady. The baby fat is gone, and you’re now as lean as a library ladder. It feels like you’ve transformed overnight, but no matter what, you’ll always be my baby.
From the start, you were the little brother in our family. Your older brother adored you deeply. You followed him everywhere, perched on his lap while he played games on his DS, cheering him on. He shielded you from creepy crawlies, taught you the rules of the parking lot, and introduced you to the world of Pokémon. You both shared sushi, toys, and a profound bond—so much so that I often found you asleep, holding hands across the divide of your beds.
The little brother role was a perfect fit for you, filled with silliness and carefree joy. Then, everything changed when your brother fell ill with brain cancer. You spent a lot of time with your Aunt during that difficult time, feeling lost and confused. Your brother changed before your eyes; he was in a wheelchair and spent long months in the hospital. Yet, all you wanted was to be close to him—hugging him, discussing Pokémon, and creating adventures for your many stuffed animals. You’d climb into his hospital bed to watch Nick Jr., drifting off to sleep while holding onto him.
After your brother passed, you were an only child for a while, and it didn’t suit you at all. You felt lonely and anxious, never wanting to leave my side (and I didn’t want you to either). Then came your little sister, and you thrived in your new role as her big brother. She looks up to you like you hung the moon. You’re protective, fun, and funny, sharing your love for Pokémon, sushi, and those all-important parking lot rules. Now, she’s the silly one, with you as her steadfast protector.
I’m constantly amazed by your resilience. Your kindness, compassion, and curiosity inspire me every day. You’re my living example of what it means to be a good and strong person. Did you know you saved my life? You were the reason I got out of bed the day after your brother’s passing. Without you… well, I can’t even imagine. Your smile has transformative powers, and I’m utterly defenseless against your charm. You give me the courage to face anything life throws my way.
You hold my heart.
Your dreams of becoming a doctor/actor/comedian/research scientist/theoretical physicist are all within your reach. I believe in you wholeheartedly. You have a fantastic group of friends who embrace your quirky aspirations and antics, especially your best friend, who is like a ray of sunshine in boy form. You both look out for one another like brothers—what more could you ask for in a friend?
But please, don’t rush to grow up. Embrace your goofiness a bit longer. Stay innocent and silly. Recently, you exclaimed, “I know how babies are made! The man puts his ding-dong into the woman’s slipperslap, and then a baby comes out.” First off, that’s possibly the best slang term I’ve ever heard. I’m proud to be the mom of a word innovator! But second, you really don’t know much, and that’s fantastic. While you excel academically, I’m grateful you’re not in a hurry to catch up with the bus kids or those sneaking behind the 7-11.
I love that you embrace your “nerd” side. Your dance moves and dry humor crack me up. I even cherish our playful debates (you’re quite the arguer!). You bring laughter into my life every day, filling me with happiness and pride.
You make me look better at this mom gig than I truly am.
My birthday wish for you is to carve out your place in this vast world. Don’t get overwhelmed by choices. Surround yourself with those who love you. Keep a calm heart and seek your happiness—whatever that looks like for you, you deserve it. Remember, your past doesn’t define your future.
Thanks for being my light. Promise me you’ll never outgrow our snuggles while watching Saturday Night Live on the couch. And I appreciate the future plan of letting me live in a tiny house in your backyard when I’m an old lady.
Stay cool, Buddy. Have the most amazing birthday!
With all my love,
Mom