Soon after September 28 dawned, I got a text from you asking if we could spend the day together.  I was surprised and happy – but a bit perplexed – because it was a school day.

Were you feeling a little under the weather, not quite ready for a day of school? Were you skipping school to celebrate your birthday?  I checked with your Mom and she said you just felt like doing something with me.  How cool is that? I’m the luckiest grandfather aka Papa in the world.  You made my day!

I had my annual physical, a haircut and two car registrations scheduled that morning, so I told your Mom I’d pick you up at Noon at school where you’d hang out a few hours.  The “party line” was that you had a doctor’s appointment and I was bringing you – that was the secret code word for “get me out of here.”

It was a nice September day so I put the top down on the Porsche and we began our adventure.  We did some cool things including:

• lunch at RiverBend – I asked what you wanted to eat on your birthday and this topped your list.  We ate yummy subs inside.
• Licky & Chewy’s – the owner took our photo together, we bought candy and drank chocolate shakes, a love we both share
• Hilltop fun Center – we competed on the go cart track, played arcade games and did our patented crazy backward “up the tube” shots at mini golf (we were the only ones on the course!)
• a quick visit to the hospital where “Great Gram” had been admitted on Monday for congestive heart failure
• Flatbread with your family at dinner to formally celebrate your 13th birthday

Fantastic day!  You got to skip hours of school and I got to spend the afternoon and evening with my incredible grandson.  Thanks again for inviting me – we should do this every year including when you’re in college!!

happy birthday Camden, you’re a teenager!  Here are 10 things that jump to mind as you reach this special milestone:

1. being with you – is always an absolute highlight. We’ve had awesome adventures over the years, whether 3M, family or one-on-one.  This past summer we did some (very) cool things, including kayaking, boogie-boarding, paddle-boarding, Dave & Bustering and even climbing up giant boulders and jumping (over and over) into Mendum’s Pond.  I love creating “adventures” where we’re doing something fun, cool, challenging, different.  I’m blessed I’m still able to physically do these things, even though I can’t keep up with you!
2. conversations– we have such interesting conversations. It’s no longer kid stuff.  We discuss politics (how we’re so dismayed and disappointed with Trump); sports; things you’re learning in school.  I feel like I’m having a conversation with an adult – but better!
3. laughing – Seeing your eyes light up and your smile fill a room warms my soul.
4. learning from you – one of the superawesome benefits of being a grandfather is what you can learn from your grandkids – if you keep your eyes and ears open. You’ve help me with many things, jumping right in there, taking things over.  This includes helping me figure out my iPhone (I am a sadly pathetic).
5. receiving –  I love the presents you give me on special occasions and proudly display them in my office.  Recent gifts include your “bird’s eye view” drawing of a city from the rooftops.  The green 3-D Eiffel Tower you created.  The hand-made wooden bowl.  Your Camden silhouette.  I dig your creativity and am always warmed by your thoughtfulness.
6. your many talents and attributes –  I always notice – and appreciate – what makes you tick and makes you special.  What jumps to mind? Your energy, curiosity, smarts, fearlessness, creativity, competitiveness, motivation, personality and sense of humor.
7. watching you grow – it’s cool watching you grow up.  No longer a kid, now an emerging young adult.  In less than two years you’ll be in high school.  How can time fly by so fast?  I treasure every single moment.
8. getting a hug from you –  there’s nothing better
9. your friend-making nature –  I’ve had many occasions where I’m in the same room as you and a friend, or I’m watching you playing a sport with friends, or I’m actually doing something with you and your friends.  This Spring, I walked with you and Eli to the special bike trick path you created.  You wanted me to see it, and I’m glad I did.  You’re a kind, good friend to many, and this will serve you well all the days of your life.
10. being your Papa –  I’m so incredibly lucky having you in my life. You make me a better person and make life interesting and fun.  Can’t wait to see how you transform in the years ahead.

Love you lots, happy birthday!