As hard as it for me to admit, the boy is rapidly approaching the teenage years. In fact, many would argue, at 12, he’s actually in them. We’ve definitely seen our share of adjustments. Let’s start with the shoes. Long gone are the cheaper toddler size shoes. Now, we’re looking for size 9-91/2. He long ago surpassed mommy’s size 6 and now he’s smashed through daddy’s size 8.5.

Next up, the boy is more aware of clothing names. And while it’s hard to get him out of athletic wear, he sure does know the difference between Nike and a cheaper store brand.

Groceries: How is it possible to go the store on Friday but (and I’m quoting him here) ”have nothing to eat” by Sunday. Where did my $200 groceries go?

Speaking of food, we’ve resorted to ordering a large pizza and two slices for mommy at Mancos. He can guzzle down 5 slices and then be ready to eat again within the hour. How?

And then there are the girls. Ladies, the younger generation is starting to take notice. It started a few weeks ago when a random girl in Algebra class told him that he looked like an Evan. And just this week, that girl’s friend came up to ask if he liked her. Zachary’s response, ”not particularily”. It wasn’t until he got home that his light bulb went off. You see, that’s how girls roll. You have your friend gage the waters. ”Oh, maybe that’s why she said give her a chance“ You think? I may be a little impartial, but the boy is super cute with his beautiful dark, Korean hair, broad shoulders and size 91/2 shoe. Sprinkle that in with brains and humility (she doesn’t like me) and you’ve got yourself a keeper. Now, unfortunate for those girls, but the boy is still working on his game. Welcome to the teenage years!