Tuesday, January 24, 2012

Jumbo Joe

It officially happened, I've have been an Aunt long enough to become emotional about a nephew's birthday. I can remember you as an itty bitty boy. The cutest ring bearer eva for Commish and Jackie's wedding. Tiny round face, with little H. Potter glasses, so darned cute they were practical a prop purchased for the wedding day.
And then...
you were this bigger boy. Sweet, quiet, sorta silly. Lovin your momma and super All The Time smiley. With your crazy early, self-imposed bedtimes and your complete ban of all clothing items not labeled Redbird Rowdies?? Worn like a second skin.
The Kid used to look up at you, like this:

(actually, he still does...)

And then BLINK!!
You turned into a teenager. High school royalty. My children and I followed you around like my van was your personal Fan Bus. Track meets, parades, football games, Homecoming dances (ummmm... again, sorry about that) basketball games...etc.



And now: You are 16. Yuck. Dislike Button.
Listen, if your mother wants to let you become an adult, man your own vehicle, totally grow up... that is her business. But I'm not gonna be happy about it. Cute little round boy faces turning into chiseled handsome man faces...? Not gonna hear this Aunt say anything nice about that! No sir.
I'm not gonna tell you that you're shaping into a pretty cool guy. The type of guy that can weave and dodge life's curve balls with a sly crooked smile, surprisingly sturdy spine and carefree ease.
I'm totally not gonna mention, you have maintained your sweet friendly innocence, as you venture further up and out on the open road.
Nor will I write about the huggable loving momma's boy, who continues to Heart his mother, while nurturing a keen protective instinct.
I certainly would never whisper to Flag Girl: You've done a fine job, of raising that little ring bearer into a kind and polite mini-man. Nope, I would never.
Just remember, you are never too big, for me to save you from a blizzard. My bathroom and chip cabinet... are always yours. (Unless The Kid turns into a teenager.. but I'm stronger and meaner than Flag Girl, I'm never gonna let that happen.)

Happy 16th!
We sure like you, in this house.
You're like the son, I've always wanted. Cool, athletic, kind, cute, sweet... and I never have to yell or make you clean your room!

14 comments:

The General said...

Happy Birthday

Anonymous said...

I remember giving you and Hanna rides to Kindergarten, teaching you The Name Game. We all chuckled every week doing grandpa Art, but I struggled for excuses not to do Hanna's dad Chuck Chuck Bo Buck! Happy Bday

Flag Girl said...

Happy Birthday! You make me smile everyday! I will hold onto every moment I get with you until you decide to leave me for "some girl"! ugh!
Keep your happy spirit....It looks awesome on You....Happy 16.

Anonymous said...

Jumbo Joe, thanks jennifer, means a lot.

Unknown said...

Happy, Happy Birthday Jumbo Joe. You are not just nice to your Mom, you are a great cousin to the little cousins who look up to you.

The Mrs. said...

Happy birthday. I remember 16 being a good year. Live it up!

Munchkin said...

Happy Birthday!!

Doc said...

Happy Birthday Jumbo Joe!! I can't believe this day is here....TS said it perfectly..in just a blink you have grown up. This house is a HUGE fan of you!! Enjoy this year and the many to come!

Anonymous said...

Happy Birthday Jumbo Joe. The day you were born, I went late to CCD. Had to see my new Grandson. Not too many events made me miss CCD. You were worth it. Love you. Have a Happy Day. Good luck tomorrow!!!!

Coach said...

Happy Birthday! Once you get your wheels, make sure you swing by to show off who your drivin around. Also, the little girls help with the girls, I use to use you and #1 all the time.

Sweetbreads Bailey said...

Happy Birthday again! 16!!

Chili said...

Happy Birthday Ryan! The Chicas don't stand a chance now....

Stephanie said...

Happy Birthday Ryan! I hope your big wheels will soon move off your mother's front porch!

Chili said...

I'd leave the big wheels till at least next fall!