Apollo 13

 We have a teenager in the house...again. What a year it has been. One year ago Apollo turned 12 at the beginning of the pandemic. We celebrated. Just the four of us, under lockdown. Apollo hasn't been to school in a year...over a year actually. All the usual interactions with friends has been minimal and sparse. The boys and Melanie, went a couple months without being in a car or going to a store. We spent a lot of time together as a family. Now, as I look back, we  (the four of us) have spent much more time together in the past 13 months, than the previous two years combined.  All day every day with very few breaks, especially for Melanie. While we are excited for the boys to be back in school at the start of the next school year, I know that I will look back and miss this gift of family time. Social distancing brought us closer together, however, I do not look forward to the pubescent distancing and independence that occurs in the coming teenage years.

We have watched Apollo begin his transformation into a man this past year; His voice changing,  Growing in height. Muscles growing. He is getting so strong. I have loved riding bikes with him, especially since Christmas. He has gotten strong enough to keep up with me on the bike and follows me on almost any terrain when mountain biking. 

I've lost a boy to the relentless progression of time, but gain a young man. A young man full of potential and promise. It is bittersweet knowing that we have fewer years in front of us than behind, before he fledges the nest. Too few for my liking if I'm honest. But then again, we are only just entering the teenage years.

Apollo is creative. He has began using a 3d printer to make things. He is exploring drawing and digital art. He is creative in his ideas and writing. A collaborator and comedian in his demeaner. And a fierce protector of all of Gods creatures. 

Apollo, you make make my life more interesting. The world could use a lot more people like you in it. I am proud to be your father and fortunate to call you my own. I am proud of you and everything that you do. 

Happy 13th Birthday! ~ Love you forever~ Dad