Friday night grateful moment: Seth

I'm sitting in Seth's newly rearranged big-boy room (OK, not really, in the traditional "big-boy" sense, more a movement from early-teen to TEEN), and just a few minutes ago it struck me that my grateful list is short and sweet and one-note tonight: my boy.

I am so grateful for:

His sweet and loving ways. He is always good for a hug, and is not shy with sharing words of love and kindness.

His unique ways of seeing the world. Watching him come into himself and learn more about what he thinks and believes, is really a pleasure. Our conversations at home are always lively, and when we disagree or don't see eye to eye, there is always respect.

His thirst for knowledge. As we cleaned and rearranged his room this afternoon, there was a great deal of sorting through books for keepability; he has such a great range of interests, and a crazy amount of books to go with those interests!

His funky obsessions. From various music artists (current standbys are Cake, The Flashbulb, Little People and Ratatat) to his Magic card games to Line Rider and Frosted MiniWheats for breakfast every single morning all summer (I know, who is raising this kid?). What, my child? A tangent or two? How bizzare. ;)

His good heart. Seth always wants to believe the best in people, even those who have disappointed him. I love this so much, and am so glad for him that he knows how to forgive and move forward. This will serve him well throughout his life.

His growth in helpfulness. Seth has really stepped up this summer with help around the house, from painting window trim to mowing and weeding (not his favorite), as well as doing the dishes every single day and laundry start to finish. It's been a huge help to me as I head off to work, to know he'll take care of various household tasks.

His love for his step-dad. Their relationship is truly one of the greatest gifts of this past decade. It simply can't be understated how much better all of our lives are because of their affection for each other.

The song in the video below is one that reminds me of Seth (of course!), whenever I hear it. There's no "official" music video, so I was at the mercy of the three people who have made videos using this song... these babies are pretty precious.