Well, my brain glitched and I forgot to write a post on Caedmon’s birthday, but I don’t want to miss it, even if I am two months late.
This past year, Caedmon graduated with his 2-year Electrical Engineering Technology degree, and started his first real “adult” job, complete with health insurance a 401k and on-call responsibilities. He’s choosing to remain at home while he saves money to buy a house (something I certainly don’t mind, and actually think is wise).
He often still feels, though, that he’s waiting for his “real” adult life to start, which, in his mind, should include a family of his own, and possibly a Christmas tree farm. We remind him often, though, that God has a plan for this season of his life and encourage him to make the most of it. And, really, he usually does.
He is unashamed of his faith. His coworkers know he is a Christian and will engage him in conversations about God and faith, and at times, even ask his opinion about tough circumstances. He has also been leading a young adult Bible study, getting involved at church, and attendingTPUSA meetings when he can.
Caedmon is very interested in politics and though somewhat naive still about what motivates some people and policies, he is learning to form opinions that are his own, and will readily engage in debate…usually with at least a reasonably strong understanding of the various factors at play.
In his free time, Caedmon continues to love LEGO, and Marvel, and going for drives on country roads. He often grabs his fishing pole after work and seeks out new spots that might actually result in catching fish…though is rarely discouraged if he comes home empty-handed. He has spent many hours working on his car…not out of enjoyment, but simply a desire to see his car with 240,000+ miles make it a little bit longer.
Caedmon spends a lot of time with his oldest three siblings, as they are among his best friends, but finds it a little harder to make time for the younger three. I talk to him about it, and he seems to agree he could do better, but he struggles with remembering that younger kids are excited and amused by different things…and doesn’t always have the patience for things that don’t interest him. Still, he has moments of purposeful interaction with them, and it, of course, always makes their day.
Caedmon still loves to talk, for which I am so grateful. He doesn’t always take our advice, and he voices dissenting opinions at times, but I am thankful for that, too. He is principled, and intelligent and confident, but he is also wise enough to hear opinions he doesn’t like and to consider whether they might have merit. I am proud of the young man Caedmon is, and I look forward to seeing how God works in his life in the coming years.