So many thoughts have been running through my mind as I think about Tim turning 18 in just a month—and then graduating high school only five days later. It all feels a bit surreal. Some days it seems like just yesterday he was a baby in my arms. Oh, how I miss those days.
As a baby and toddler, he was such a character—full of energy and life. He went from crawling, to wobbling on his feet, to taking a few steps… and then he was off and running. From that moment on, he was everywhere and into everything—like a curious little explorer. We had to stay on our toes to keep him safe as he discovered the world around him. Somehow, even when he managed to slip away and take a few “express routes” down the stairs, he always came out without a scratch. Crazy, right?
As kindergarten approached, we knew traditional school might not be the best fit for him. With all that energy, we worried he’d be labeled instead of understood. We wanted to nurture his curiosity, not stifle it—so we chose to homeschool. It turned out to be one of the best decisions we’ve ever made. He has absolutely thrived. He’s become an independent, hands-on learner who isn’t afraid to figure things out on his own. Honestly, he can do things on a computer that I can only dream of…LOL!!
In fourth grade though, Tim faced a significant medical setback that required him to repeat the year. When he reached high school, he was determined to graduate on time, so he took on an intense academic workload to make it happen. In 10th grade, he completed both his 10th-grade studies and half of his 11th-grade coursework. Then, during his senior year, this school year, he's finished the remaining 11th-grade work while also completing all of his senior requirements. We knew he could do it and in just 28 days or so he will have it all done.
Of course, we also knew he needed a strong outlet for all his energy. He began TaeKwonDo at just 4 years old and continued until he was 15. During that time, he earned his 3rd Dan black belt, along with countless medals and trophies. More importantly, he developed discipline, resilience, and a strong work ethic. He has dreams of competing on the world stage, but ultimately he realized that path would not come through TaeKwondo.
In 2023, he found Olympic weightlifting—and it was like everything clicked into place. This is where he belongs. His build, his mindset, his drive—it all fits. And all those years in TaeKwonDo? They weren’t wasted at all. They laid the foundation for the success he’s experiencing now.
It feels like everything is moving in fast forward as he steps into becoming his own man. Turning 18 is a huge milestone, and graduating high school just days later makes it even more significant. I’m so excited for what lies ahead for him, because I truly believe it’s going to be something special. He has a determination that can’t be taught—a fire to chase his dreams with everything he has. I have no doubt he’ll stand on that world stage one day, representing our country—or give everything in him trying. And through it all, he knows he has our unwavering support.
His dad and I are so grateful to have a front-row seat to this journey. Our greatest dream is simply to watch him achieve his own.
In just 31 days, he’ll turn 18. In 36 days, he’ll be finished with high school. With each passing day, the excitement builds as we get closer to these incredible milestones.
We are so incredibly proud of you - Tim! We love you to the moon and beyond!
Thank You, God, for the gift of Tim. These nearly 18 years with him have been such an incredible journey. We’re so grateful for every moment and look ahead with excitement as we watch him continue to grow into the man he’s becoming. This next chapter may look different, but it’s one we welcome with full hearts and great anticipation.
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