Things about Alex that bring me J O Y

His sweet temperament and personality. His gentleness.

When he dances or dabs after making the perfect comment.

That he's so self-reliant and responsible.

How he loves his kitties so much and just wants what's best for them.

How he handles all his allergies without much complaint.

His handsome face. He is and has always been such a good-looking kid. (I know biology makes me biased.) ;)

His ability to remember things he's studied and read. His mind. 

His quiet nature.

His desire that everyone just do the right thing, himself included.

How he's handling high school, with all its newness, as it comes. 

His loyalty to and friendship with Brandon.

That he goes at his own pace and knows his limits.

That he's stepped out of his comfort zone to try the rock climbing club, mostly because we made him pick SOMETHING, but that he chose this one, not the one we suggested. ;)

That he'll discuss good books with me. 

That I can use bad language around him now, and it doesn't phase him. (Not that I do it very much, but you know. When we watch a video and the f-bomb is dropped, it's okay.) Teens for the win.

That he's being cautious in high school, where kids are sometimes doing dangerous/questionable things like vaping and Juul pods. 

When he works really hard at a piano piece and wants to get it right.

That he's so sensitive to my feelings. 

That he is HELPFUL and if we ask for his help, he willingly gives it.

That he's frugal and wise about money.

That he'll still jump on the trampoline or shoot baskets with his sister.

He doesn't always understand her, but he tells her he loves her every night before bed.