to my son on his 11th birthday

Gatsby, GB, Geebs –

Happy 11th Birthday, Geebs! 🎉

Last year, you hit the big 1-0 under the Hawaiian sun. This year, we’re trading luaus for layers as we celebrate in the Poconos, all thanks to yet another one of Holdy’s cheer competitions.

This year you became a hair chameleon. From box braids to a perm (shoutout to Ms. Kevan), your hairstyles have had a starring role this year, even when they’re hidden under a skull cap.

Basketball continues to be your main squeeze. You balled out in the Summer Blacktop Bash and held it down with Team Crimson Tide in the winter Manchester Rec League. Now, you’re sharpening your skills in the development league at Ballyhoo. This summer, you’re set to attend the Nike Basketball Camp at Gettysburg College (my alma mater, no pressure) and day camp at Hunter’s Hoops at York College.

This year, you channeled your inner craftsman by picking up wood whittling, with Uncle Tom as your guide. Who knew sharp objects could bring so much joy? On the culinary front, you became our resident mixologist, crafting smoothies and fancy fruit water.

You started helping at the pretzel company this year, taking on the crucial role of pretzel-putter-oner on our new flow-wrapper, ensuring carbs were packaged with precision.

And let’s not forget Christmas Eve, where you rocked a white tuxedo. Somewhere, a 1970s prom is missing its outfit.

At school, you’ve become quite the social butterfly, as noted during your parent-teacher conference. Now, if only that charm could be directed toward focusing in class.

Your relationship with Holdy continues to drive us all crazy. One minute, you’re co-conspirators; the next, you’re reenacting WrestleMania in the living room.

Gatsby, this year has been a whirlwind of laughs, growth, and unforgettable moments. Keep being the amazing, multifaceted, sensitive person you are. Here’s to another year of adventures—may your jump shot be true, your smoothies be smooth, and your sibling showdowns end in a tie.