Hey guys — it’s time to celebrate! My amazing little guy is two years old, and it is such a special time for our family. I want to make him feel special for his birthday. In my opinion, every year we spend on this beautiful planet is a big deal and should be celebrated accordingly. Price is our second and youngest child, so he’s used to sharing his parents’ time with his sister. I mean, aside from the Netflix-and-chill time we enjoy together every once in a while, we rarely get to do things just us. I think it’s so important for parents to spend quality one-on-one time with their kids, though, no matter how many you have. And I want Price to know that I recognize his individuality — and that some things are simply meant for him and his momma!



How did Price and I spend our time together? First stop, we left for an ice cream date at our favorite place, Carmela Ice Cream Co. He doesn’t need anything big or fancy to have a good time — it’s the simple things that matter to my son. Carmela’s is a boutique ice creamery tucked right in our neighborhood, with other locations scattered across California. They have the most incredible, unique flavors. On my list of favorites are the Salted Caramel, Roasted Sweet Potato, and Lavender Honey, while Price likes the Dark Chocolate- Cacao Nib, Lemon Basil Sorbet, and Rose Petal. I know what your’e probably thinking, what kinda flavors are those for icecream? Trust me, after the first bite, you’ll be hooked! Thank God they sell little pints just in case you can’t get enough on your visit! I appreciate that he’s expanding his palette early on, and enjoy exposing him to new tastes! In my opinion, it’s never too early to develop a refined palette.


Anyway, as Price and I sat and ate our ice cream together, I found myself touched by how much he’s grown and what an amazing young man he’s growing up to be. His birthday gave me a chance to reflect on what a huge responsibility I have as his mom to help make him stand-up gentleman — in particular as a black man in America. Though challenging, I’m so looking forward to raising my son! 



Since I’ve never known firsthand what it’s like to be a man, I realize there are a number of lessons I can’t teach Price alone. Potty training, hygiene, and grooming come to mind — those topics are for Dad and the rest of the “village” it takes to raise a child.



With all that said, I’ll definitely do my part to teach my son what I can, including what I consider some of the most important principles in life:



1. Love God.

2. Love yourself.

3. Love others and treat them with respect — women especially.
4. 
Be kind.

5. Do your best in everything you do, and don’t let anyone stop you from reaching your potential.

6. Make a difference, and be the change you want to see in the world.

7. Exercise your God-given talents.

8. Don’t be afraid of new challenges, or of taking risks.

9. Trust your instincts.

10. Don’t be afraid to express your emotions.



Each and every day, I will try my best to exemplify these principles so that Price can not only learn from our daily talks — which I’m sure we’ll have more of when he’s older — but also from my actions. 



By the way, we tried to coordinate our outfits a little bit, even though Price prefers his superhero getups. His hat, cool jeans, and shoes are all from one of our new favorite stores for the little ones, Cotton On Kids. My shoes, pants, and shirt are all from Nordstrom & Top Shop. I got this cute grey backpack with fur accent from Sorella Boutique !

As said by the poetic Sigmund Freud,

“If a man has been his mother’s undisputed darling he retains throughout life the triumphant feeling, the confidence in success, which seldom brings actual success along with it.”

I want my son to know that I will always believe in him, and be his biggest cheerleader, and most of all share with him advice that I believe will guide him to be the best he can be.

Mothers, your sons depend on you to show him an example of a strong and loving woman. Let’s always remember to remind them how important and special they are, and watch as the world gains its new leaders for generations to come!