February 4, 2022

Today's Friday Favorites is an extra special edition. Twenty years ago today, this guy made a fast and furious entrance into the world....

Parker is the middle of my three boys. And as of today, we no longer have any teenagers in our family...well at least until five years from now when Mason turns 13. Bless.

You can read the post to my oldest, Peyton, on his 18th birthday here. He is now 22. Sigh.

One of family's February traditions is to hang paper hearts on their bedroom doors stating things I love about them. By Valentine's Day, each kid would have 14 hearts reminding them of their best qualities.

Since Parker is away at college, I thought it would be fun to use my little corner of the internet to share 20 things I love about Parker on his 20th birthday.

1. His hugs. If you've ever received one, you understand.

2. His persistence. While this was not so fun while parenting him, I see it paying off in the real world. I used to tell him, "Someday your persistence will pay off. Today is not that day."😂 He is a problem solver. And if there is something he wants, he doesn't stop until it's his.

3. His smile.

4. His sense of humor. Oh my goodness, we have stories!

5. His fashion sense.

6. His eyes. People used to stop me when he was a baby and tell me how beautiful his eyes were.

7. His ability to pivot. If plan A falls apart, Parker always makes plan B look like the original course of action.

8. His outlook on conflict. If someone is upset with him, he doesn't sweat it. He knows their feelings are their business, not his.

9. His heart. He sees the best in people and makes the best decisions about who to include in his life.

10. His appetite. The boy can eat.

11. His dedication. Parker decided to workout over a year ago. I don't think he's missed a day since.

12. His love for his pets Zoe and Ralphie.

13. His relationship with his brothers. I love that they are friends and brothers.

14. His loyalty. When you have earned his trust, you're in for life.

15. His accepting nature. He extends grace better than most adults.

16. His boundaries. He is not afraid to lay down a boundary when someone shows him who they are and he knows it's not good for him.

17. His ability to step outside of his comfort zone.

18. His athleticism. I have so many great memories of watching this guy play sports.

19. His work ethic.

20. His gratitude. He is always quick with a "thank you" or an "I appreciate it". Making it much more likely that he'll continue to get what he wants. (See #2)

Happy 20th birthday, Parker! Gosh, I'm glad you're mine!

xo,

Mom