I almost have a teenager

July 4th is just around the corner, and J will officially be a teenager. It is a little difficult to believe that so much time has gone by. I can clearly remember the first few days of kindergarten, when I had to physically carry him on to the bus. Now, he is off and running without me at any chance he gets. He is not yet ready to cut the chain completely (nor am I), but he's getting close.
He's an awesome kid, respectful of his family (most days), doing his chores with very little reminding, chipping in to help out more when he knows I'm under stress.
Don't get me wrong, he has perfected eye rolling, knows everything so there is no need to listen to advice from his parents, and can give sass when he gets fired up; but he is a good, kind child, which I am happy to see. He is growing into a wonderful young man.
This year I see him becoming more independent, as he pursues his social interests more (ie. girls). I hope he continues to gain confidence and to believe in himself.