It's Great to be Eight!

Oh, my Theo,

What a year.

You've grown, you've changed, and did I mention you've grown?

Fastest runner in your class . . . or second or third, I forget . . .

Tousled hair, glittering green eyes,

And are those muscles on your arms?

We've struggled, sure.

What do you expect with two parents,

both as stubborn as you are?

But that laugh, that infectious laugh,

the one that draws your siblings to you like a magnet;

Makes us want to be around you, stay around,

Listen to you, hug you when you let us.

You're starting to know your power, the power that lets you lead.

You notice how others watch you,

Follow you, listen when you speak.

Use that power wisely, think before you act,

Be a friend first, last, and always.

Be pure. Choose right.

Keep the spirit close, let it guide,

And always look up, not around.