The One about the Birthday Boy

Back when I was pregnant, people would ask me whether I hoped for another girl or a boy. I didn’t care either way as long as the baby was healthy. But, I’d be lying if I didn’t say that I had doubts about my own parenting skills when raising a son. It sounds ridiculous now, but I remember thinking to myself that I only know about girls, having a sister of my own. What did I know about boys?

All doubts were put aside when the doctor put Andrew in my arms at 12:13 am on October 17, 2003.
Ten fingers, ten toes. 7lbs. 1 oz. Lots of dark hair and the longest eyelashes that fashion models would kill for.
He was perfect.

And I found out quickly that there is no difference in raising boys vs. girls. (DUH!) To me, parenting is all about instilling your values in your children and share your passions with them. And then, give them the love and support they need to take these things and grow into the people they are destined to become. Sixteen years later, Andrew emulates everything we value as adults and more. Today on his birthday, we celebrate that with great pride.

A few things about Andrew:

He has a strong moral compass and an innate desire to give back to those in need.

In school, synagogue, sports, and scouts, he has a fierce drive to do his very best.

Since he was born, he has had a fantastic smile that, to this day, lights up a room. I think people are drawn to him by that smile.

His sense of humor is smart, deadpan, and hilarious.

He has the nicest group of friends. lt was no surprise to me that when we went on a cruise this past summer, he met a group of friends, and they bonded instantly. So much so, that on the last night, they gathered on the pool deck in a circle and shed some tears because they had to leave each other. Four months later, he stays in contact with them through a group chat.

Right now, the thing I love most about him is how he wears kindness on his sleeve. Honestly, in today’s crazy world, the smallest and heartfelt act of kindness goes a long way, and I know it will take him far in life.

As his mother, I could go on and on about how great he is, but I think you get it. In Judaism, we call him a mensch which is Yiddish for a good person. He is such a mensch.

Happy Birthday, Andrew. We love you.