Birthday Wishes

Happy Birthday to my little darling baby boy - today you turn 18 years old! It seems like just a short time ago I was wiping snot from your nose and kissing your boo-boos. Now, you're driving my car and asking for money. You used to ask me for help with your spelling words, now you need advice regarding your girlfriend. You have plans for the future, a job, relationships... you are a man. Where did the time go? I remember the day you were born. Am I that old already? There are times I wish I could take back, days I should change, minutes not spent with every moment dedicated to you. I should have cleaned less and played more. So what if we'd read that book a gazillion times already? Someday I won't be able to read to you anymore. You still remember our song... when it comes on the radio, you point it out to me. You remember how I'd sing to you at night, rubbing your arm until you fell asleep. You remember the silly things, the good things, and even the sad things. You don't mention the mistakes I've made along the way, though I'm sure there are plenty. You're not embarrassed to be seen with your parents, and we appreciate that. You're fiercely loyal and protective. You have a good head on your shoulders. You've lived and learned, for these short 18 years, and that will make you stronger for the next several decades ahead. Every day is a learning experience, and I hope you never forget that. We are so proud of you, and love you more than you could ever know.
I'll love you forever, I'll like you for always, as long as I'm living, my baby you'll be.