Wait… I Have a 21-Year-Old?!

October 5 marks a milestone I still can’t wrap my head around—my baby boy, Landon is 21. The big two-one. The “you can now legally order a drink but please, for the love of God, don’t test your tolerance on your birthday” age.

It feels surreal because 21 years ago, I was just 20 years old myself. I was married, pregnant, and suddenly someone’s mom before I could even legally rent a car. Landon was born just a couple of months before my own 21st birthday. Let’s be real: I can’t even imagine Landon in that same position today—married with a baby at his age—and I’m beyond grateful his life looks very different than mine did.

Back then, I was a college dropout who didn’t take high school all that seriously, never really thought about college plans, and certainly didn’t have a vision for “what’s next.” Meanwhile, Landon is thriving as a junior at UW–Milwaukee, studying film and embracing this whole new life of growth, responsibility, and independence. In other words, everything I was actively avoiding at 21, he’s running toward with open arms. And I couldn’t be prouder.

The Journey We Shared

Landon and I kind of grew up together, if we’re being honest. I was figuring out life while trying to raise a tiny human, and somehow, we both survived it. I was a single mom for seven years, doing everything I could to keep things steady—even when they definitely weren’t. It wasn’t perfect, and I know I didn’t always get it right, but we made it through together—and I think we both turned out pretty okay.

The Proud Mom Moment

Here’s the thing—he doesn’t need me in the same way anymore. And yes, that stings just a little. But he also does still need me, just differently. And I need him, too. Because when I look at him, I don't just see the 9 lb. 9 oz. baby boy I brought into this world, but the responsible, kind, funny, strong, capable human he’s become making his own memories, and creating a future with Amelia, who’s been by his side for three years now. She’s his person, and I couldn’t love that more.

Words of Wisdom for 21

Landon, I know you’re not taking your first sip of alcohol today (wink, wink), but now that it’s legal, my only mom-advice is this: drink smart, love big, and don’t let life rush by unnoticed.

Time is funny. In one sense, it feels like you were born five minutes ago. But in another, it feels like lifetimes have passed since those early days when it was just you and me, trying to figure things out. Twenty-one years slipped by in a blink of an eye. And now here you are, grown, responsible, in love, and carving your own path.

So happy 21st birthday, Landon. Celebrate big and please don’t forget to call your mom from time to time.