10. Double Digits. 2 Whole Hands.

Last Sunday, Charlie turned 10.

Double Digits.

2 Whole Hands.

As in, closer to teenager then toddler.

6 years until he drives.

8 years until college.

Excuse me while I go cry.

For 10, he's both exceptionally mature and exceptionally immature at the same time.

His knowledge base is so far beyond so many other kids, and yet, he's somewhat sheltered from pop culture, and thus, not really "growing up fast" in the society kind of way.

I look back at what he's been through in 10 years and I realize he went through more in his first 10 years than I did in my first 25.

He's seen more, been more places, done more, and yet he's not cynical, or hardened.

He's sweet.

And kind.

He's lost 3 good friends, given a eulogy, received a life altering chronic illness diagnosis, done infusions for 7 years, put in his own needles. He's been to 27 states, spoken in front of 1000+ people, gone to New York City for a book signing.

When I look at my young man I know he has been shaped into exactly who he is supposed to be by these experiences, and his strength outweighs mine by light years.

Happy Birthday Doodle Bug.