May 21, 2025: The Life Snapshot

Today, my youngest turned 19.

Happy Birthday, Sam!

We have a few bday traditions that have stood the test of time. First, we count each year out loud, followed by a clap with every number. “Are you 1? Are you 2? Are you 3…?”

Somewhere around 17 or 18, it turns into more of a cardio workout than a celebration, which only becomes funnier with older ages.

Then we offer our “word” to describe the honored person. Not a speech, just an adjective, as we go around the room.

Sam’s words through the years? Funny. Adaptable. Intelligent. Calming. Confident. A solid resume for 19.

And then there’s another custom, started when Sam was 8yrs old. I record his answers to the same list of questions, such as:

Will you get married?
How many children?
Where will you live one day?
Best memory?
Favorite sports teams?
Closest friends?

There are about 25 total, and his replies have changed, like watching a Polaroid develop and slowly coming into focus.

When younger, he forever wanted to “live with Mom and Dad.” But recently, his goal is marriage with 3-4 kids. Time changes things.

I’m grateful for the day Sam arrived in 2006.