Alexander James

My son.  Oh, my amazing son!  When I look at his face, I see so much of myself, yet I am amazed at who he is that I don't quite know yet.  From the day he was born, he has always been such a happy, kind soul.  He loves to laugh, loves to make other people laugh, and loves to make friends with anyone he meets.  His personality reminds me so very much of my father-in-law, Jerry, as well as my grandpa, Melvin.  When you hear people say, "He never meets a stranger," you may not completely understand that concept.  My son (and these two men) embodies this statement entirely.  It's incredible to watch, and also a bit terrifying as a mother in this day and age.  He is so loving and trusting, almost to a fault.

When I watch him play with his friends, I am amazed at his kindness.  He is one of the older elementary-aged kids on our street, but he has no problem playing with kids who are younger than him.  He doesn't care that they are not in his grade, or that he doesn't get to see them at school except for riding the bus to and from school.  When they play, his imagination takes over and it's remarkable.  I may not always understand their "games" they decide to play, or may think they're a bit silly.  But when this kid plays, he goes all in.  And he makes those around him enjoy themselves completely.

Now, when I say that he is like my grandpa, I mean it in so many different ways.  This kid can talk.  He tells stories all the time, just like my Papa.  He is long-winded, and his stories often are about things he's played with his friends.  But he tells them with such gusto and passion that he draws you in.  He's also incredibly funny, which is something that has been coming to light over the last year or two.  Our daughter has always had incredible natural comedic timing.  That has not always been the case for Alex.  But, boy oh boy, has that ever changed.  And when he tells you something funny, and you laugh, you can see it on his face: the pride he feels for having made you laugh.  When I can make him laugh, which is quite difficult these days now that he's almost 11 years old and his mom isn't funny anymore, it's so great!  His cackle is contagious.  You can't hear his laugh and not immediately burst out laughing yourself.

Being his mother is one of my greatest accomplishments.  He is intelligent beyond belief, super sweet, and an overall great person.  He loves with his whole heart.  He thinks of others before himself many times.  He seeks out those who are picked on and befriends them.  His choice of friends may not make sense to a lot of people, but he chooses them wisely.  He tries to surround himself with those who are good to him and good for him.  And I love that about him.  I can't believe he is turning 11 in just a few short weeks, because he is growing into such an amazing young man.  He definitely is not a baby anymore, but he will always be my baby.  When I look at him, I still see that sweet, always smiling face that lights up the room.  He still does.  And I am so thankful and proud that God chose me to be Alexander James McAlister's momma.  So blessed!