Darlin'........

(original courtesy of Katie Watkins photography)

You're ten years old today.

I knew it would go by in a wink, but still I was shocked when it did.

One day a round-faced toddler cautious of heights, cautious of snakes, 

cautious.  
cautious.  
cautious.

The next day growing into a boy ready to conquer fears in any shape.  
Any form.

Lover of life.  

Dreamer of big unfathomable dreams. 

You have vision.  And sometimes it's hard for you to remember all the other important things.  people.  

in your dedicated forging ahead. 

One tiny reminder whispering in your ear what is the truly valuable

and your course is adjusted within seconds.  Though no less determined.  

I always stand in awe.

You bless me.

Zachary my botanist.  Cataloguing plant names, 

flower names, berry and mushroom names, medicinal properties, and the poisonous varieties to avoid.

Machine fanatic you've always been, operating tractors since age three.  

Remember the time you drove while daddy 

stood on the box scraper 

so you could  spread gravel on our driveway?  

I do.  You must have been about 4, 

and your smile says it all!

Oh Zachary!  It is bitter bitter sweet 

watching you turn into a young man.

I am not ready to part with my round-faced toddler, 

yet there are people who'd give their life and limb to watch their children grow up.  

So I will choose to remember it's a privilege 

to see every step over every new threshold.  

It's a honor to be YOUR mom.  

To witness the transformation from little boy to capable man.  

I am so thankful for this opportunity!  

And you...

You always have,

and you always will...

amaze me.

I love you Zachary Christian!

So thankful to be your

~Mom~