Conner

6:00 AM Elizabeth Seckman 23 Comments

My baby is now a high school graduate. My baby! The youngest of the brood. He's all grown up!



Logically, I knew this would happen. When they were born, it was awesome that they were born close enough together to be friends and companions. The drawback to that is they're clearing out of the house one after another. Falling into adulthood like human dominoes.



And know it's my baby registering for college and growing a beard. It's surreal.



A few years ago, he was my baby. The last of the four C's, he was a little spoiled as a little fella. He was the baby. Even his big brothers spoiled him. If he wanted a toy, they handed it over. He was the uncrowned prince of the Seckman clan.



As the baby, he also had to be independent and adaptable. He was only a few days old when he went to his first baseball game. Then he was bundled up and taken to at least three games a week as his big brothers batted their way through little league.



Being the baby also meant learning to dress himself quicker than the others. With four kids under the age of six, everyone was encouraged to grab an outfit and get out of the door. Many times that meant gum boots and pajama tops. It didn't matter as long as he was clothed.



That independent, creative spirit stuck with him into adolescence. His style is his own. From his camouflage slippers to his cat shirts, he dresses only to please himself.



Some might say he's stubborn. I say he's focused. When he decides to do something he does it. Whether it's a tough class or the decision to lose weight, he does it. And that's a good thing, because God help the person who tries to force him to do something against his will.



Recognizing his independent streak, before he started high school, we made a deal. I'd not nag or tell him when or where to do his homework. I'd trust him to get the job done. If he didn't deliver, then he'd never get a license to drive or go hunting. Those were privileges earned by maturity.



He never missed a beat. Sure, there were nights when he was up until the wee hours finishing his work, but he always finished. And he managed to get impressive grades- without a single fight!



It turns out that stubbornness is one of his very best qualities. He's pressure proof. Be it a peer or an adult, Conner doesn't yield to bullying. Push against his principles and he pushes back.



My little buddy, my baby, is now a young man--one that I'm so very proud to call my son. He's simply one helluva a guy. Cat shirts and all.

Oh, and I almost forgot to mention that he's also an excellent cook! Another one of those things the youngest of four had to learn.





I think I have all the paper work and applications finished for Conner to be college-ready this fall. (Still wondering how he grew up so fast!) 

I've been working on my beach play list. We're going to the beach late this year so boy #1, Caleb, can finish his internship and go with us. If you know any beach songs I should add to the list, feel free to share!