Today is Zack’s birthday!

Zack and Jay

21 years old. An adult. He can now legally drink alcohol. But the way he tends to guzzle pop, we’re sticking with Martinelli’s Apple Cider.

Raffi CDs trumped all other gifts. If the “25 Favorite Veggie Tales ” CD had come on time, it would have been right up there, too. Zack recognized the size of the package and went for it first thing. He’s out in Jay’s van even as I type, listening and, no doubt, rewinding to his heart’s delight.

Zack opened the best first–a double CD set of Raffi!

IWonder If I’m Growing. Shake Your Sillies Out. Down By The Bay. All you Raffi fans out there know what I’m talkin’ bout.

We went to church this morning, where Zack made his usual rounds to say hello to everyone. Then we ordered out from Chipotle for lunch and headed home. We would have gone to the beach but it’s suddenly cold and windy and overcast — and Mom’s not willing to freeze.

Zack is great at opening presents and his response makes you just want to give him another one! He has a grin and an “Oh wow!” or delighted intake of breath that makes you feel like you really hit the jackpot with every single gift.

Now we’re waiting for Zack to be ready to eat ice cream. (Or at least I am!) But we’ve sung the song already, opened presents, and celebrated as much as our son is willing. And that’s how we roll …

It’s begun to rain hard and the trees are swaying back and forth, but as Zack comes through the front door, filled up with Raffi tunes for the moment, there is warmth in our home and we are thankful.

Happiest of Birthdays, darling man-boy! We love you lots and lots!!