Dear Benjamin,

Tomorrow for your birthday, you have asked for a day off to spend with me. I'm not foolish enough to believe that missing school isn't your ultimate goal, but you also seem to truly want a mother-son day. You don't want to see a movie or anything else I've suggested; you just want to hang out together.

It is not lost on me that many twelve year-old boys wouldn't want to spend their birthday this way. You are a special kid and we have a wonderful bond. You like to cuddle, and will even still reach out to hold hands sometimes. You have your moments of being thoughtless or rude, you could still work harder to be independently organized, and you can roll your eyes like a champ when asked to do something you'd rather resist - but in most moments you are kind and generous. You have a deeply caring heart, and are quick to say thank you or to offer a hand when someone needs it.

When we met with your teachers for conferences last week, we heard a lot about your academic potential and your remarkable test scores, but the first thing your teachers all spoke about was your personality. They commented on how funny you are, how much energy you have, and how engaged you are when learning something new. They said you make their classrooms more fun, and that they look forward to you each day. You still have some tendency toward chattiness, and can lose focus when you understand a concept quickly - but more than anything, your teachers talked about what an asset you are to the group and how enjoyable you are to be around.

I can only hope that as this next year takes you toward teenager-dom, you retain your sense of self and your excitement about the world around you. You are happy and energetic, and you have such a deep well of curiosity. You have great potential for leadership through action. Continue on the path of kindness, watching for others who might need an extra smile or word of encouragement. Remember how it feels when you haven't been the best athlete or the most popular kid, and be sure to never place that sort of judgement on another. Follow your interests and dig deep into learning. Remember to push yourself, even when it seems like what you're doing is enough. Always want to learn more, try harder, and be the best you possible.

I am so proud of you, and can't wait to get some coffee and spend the day puttering around with you tomorrow.

I love you.
Mama