Happy Birthday, Matthew

11 years ago, Matthew, you were born. I was 18 years old and a for all intents and purposes, was a single mother. I already had an almost 2 year old and I had NO idea how I was going to handle 2 kids on my own. Times were tough, but I was determined to make things work.

You were a happy baby; always giggling and wanting to be held and loved. You smiled when I walked into the room, and cried when I left. You would sit in your little bouncy seat on the dining room table while I did my college homework, and would be content to just sit there and watch me.

You grew up and become a bit more rambunctious, but I never stopped loving you. When you were diagnosed with ADHD at 5, I cried, unsure of what it would mean for your life. I only wanted, and still want, the best for you and I felt like the diagnosis would only hold you back.

But we've made it through. We've weathered the past 11 years together, through good times and bad times, through good memories and some bad, through trips and holidays, through pets, and adventures.

I love you more than words can say, even though sometimes I don't say the right words. You are my shining star, my best bud, my friend through it all....

I hope you have a wonderful 11Th birthday and hope that the Rip Stick your little heart has been desiring is in your near future :-)