My son recently turned 6. I used to think 5 was old. But 6… well, that’s really old. You know, for a little kid. In case it isn’t obvious, I’m still in denial that I have a 6 year old. Why do they have to grow up so fast? And while I love the baby stage, I have to admit that it really does keep getting better. I had some one on one time with my son and let me tell you, he’s a cool kid. I had so much fun being with him and getting to know his 6 year old self. That kid is smart, funny, kind and handsome. The whole package. I’m so honored to be his mom.
Somehow we got to avoid the friends’ party once again this year. How lucky am I?! He didn’t ask and I wasn’t going to offer. Mean? Maybe. But it’s not like we didn’t do anything special. We did spend a weekend out of town with his boy cousins to celebrate. Waterpark, Lego store and the aquarium. He was happy!
On his actual birthday, he wanted some special people to come over to celebrate with cupcakes. An hour before the guests were to arrive, all 3 of my kids were peering out the front window waiting. Not so patiently. When they finally recognized the car driving down our street, my older kids both started shouting excitedly, “they’re here!”
My oldest held the door open for them and quickly ushered them in our home. He spied the presents they carried in and couldn’t wait to see if the big one was his. Maybe a birthday present? His suspicions were right. The packages wrapped in pink were for his sisters. Just because presents.
After packages were torn into and thank yous exchanged, we all relaxed on the floor in the toy room while the kids played and ran around. We got caught up on what’s been going on and enjoyed each other’s company. Eventually we moved to the kitchen where we sang Happy Birthday and dined on cupcakes.
Then it was time for our company to go. Hugs and kisses were shared. The kids stood at the door waving as they drove away.
So, just who were these people that were bringing smiles to my kids’ faces? Family. Kids get excited to see family. Family comes over to celebrate birthdays. Family is special. But this wasn’t just any family; it was my son’s birth family. Without them, we wouldn’t have my son. And without my son, we wouldn’t have them. Since the rest of our family is out of state, it’s definitely nice to have them around! Eating cupcakes by ourselves just wouldn’t seem worthy enough for a 6 year old birthday. Open adoption might seem strange to some, but it’s our normal. We’re just family.