My Crocodile Kid

I'd love to say that, being a well-educated and astute mother, I've been able to successfully steer my children away from falling into any "Syndrome" Stereotypes.  Regrettably, that is simply not true.  Struck out on dodging First Child Syndrome - she fits nearly every stereotype in the book.  My last child is almost spoiled as they come, I admit with a cringe.

I also know that, in countless ways, Seth fits neatly into the Middle Child Syndrome Stereotype.  HOWEVER, only my son Seth can:

• Have both his third grade teacher AND an entire classroom of kids think he's the coolest kid alive
  
• Say, "Dad!  Hurry up and take your drug test so we can go sledding!" when his dad had to take a company-mandated drug test before he could take the kids sledding
  
• Pray, in all sincerity, that Dad will "make lots of money," that his aging Grandpa Angerbauer will "live longer, like, at least for another year," and that "our house will sell fast so we can find another house fast that is cheap and has a big yard."
• Delight in repeating anything funny or quirky he encounters on any given day - anyone who laughs gets treated to his attention and admiration
  
• On rare occasion, still want to cuddle
• Relish in tasks accomplished, i.e. piano, homework, chores, so he can enjoy his free time
• Be an invaluable, delightful, integral part of our family
  
• Assure his mom that "A Giant Stuffed Animal" is truly all he wants for his ninth birthday - just like his Birthday List states
  

All of these reasons, plus at least one million three hundred thousand four hundred and eighty-three more, are what make Seth much more than just our middle child.  They make him wonderfully unique, absolutely perfect, loved beyond comprehension.

Happy Birthday, Little Man!  Glad the crocodile fits so perfectly into the top bunk with you!