the David Decade...

Let me tell you some of what I've learned in 10 years since becoming a mother, compliments of my firstborn son, David. If I had to describe him in one word... well, I couldn't. He is too many wonderful and varied things. So I'll tell you what he's brought to my life and what he's shown me in this past decade...

1. A child can demonstrate extreme compassion for others, even if their life experiences are limited. I've never seen a boy tear-up like my son at the sight of someone else's pain. He might be the most kind-hearted person I've ever known.

2. Who knew that all my childhood goofiness -- like making myself laugh at made-up sounds and words -- could be replicated in another human being?

3. From his entrance into the world, David has had his own outlook on life. I don't know if I ever knew what the term "old soul" meant until I met him. He didn't cry for his first few days... too many thoughts on his new surroundings, I imagine.

4. All thoughts of what a little boy "should be" were thrown out long ago as I grew and learned TRULY to love someone for WHO THEY ARE. He digs science and trivia more than baseball and cars, that's for sure.

5. I didn't know that a young person's brain could retain and comprehend complex ideas until David started talking, which he didn't really do until around age 4. He literally has taught me about time-space theory, black holes and dark energy, among many other things.

6. I've decided there is a LOT more to nature (rather than nurture) when it comes to someone's personality and identity. My son gravitates toward what HE loves and what HIS interests are. Even as the rest of us are swaying in a different direction, David seems incapable of being anything but his truest self. I pray he never loses this amazing trait!

7. At times, I wanted him to "act his age" a little more... but in recent years, I've been so grateful that he still lets himself be vulnerable with me. My youngest son is beyond his britches at times, particularly in his speech and reasoning. This drives me nuts because basically he is too much like me in this way. So when David still wants to cuddle or when he fumbles words... well, it just means he needs me a little bit longer.

8. His loyalty to family and friends is fierce. He could teach some adults a thing or two about loving unconditionally, putting family first and making time for those you love.

9. Just when I think he is timid and unsure, David blows me away with his tenacious spirit and drive to be better at something. He definitely loves to relax, but he isn't afraid to push himself.

10. There was a time when I thought my son might have autism or Asperger's. Even today, his dexterity is lacking and he is funny about smells and textures. Sometimes, he still can't tie his shoes or stay focused for more than a few seconds. But I wouldn't change him one bit. David's comprehension is beyond me and his ear for music is impressive. He has one of the most brilliant minds I've ever had the pleasure of knowing. What a formidable challenge I have to serve as his mother and do his life justice.

March Family Focus... bring on the 'Net!

The little paper drawn for March from our family focus choices says, "Website, Blogging, Networking." I wasn't really prepared for this one but we marched right in, so to speak.

I don't anticipate letting my kids open Facebook accounts (like they'd be able to just STOP cold turkey at the end of the month), but we plan to open a blog account for them to post their own "news" (family photos and happenings, among other things). This might actually serve as a great outlet for them. Dylan loves to write and David loves to share information and, I think, has dreams of being famous!

Last week, my 9-year-old also got into "programming," thanks to a book David checked out from one of the Austin libraries for him. His focus doesn't always stay in tact, but he does seem to enjoy computer programming, at least at this early stage.

I look forward to seeing where March leads us. Everything's turning to bats and diamonds around here, so a little Internet focus should serve as a needed distraction from time to time.