"It is not flesh and blood but the heart which makes us fathers and sons." ~ Johann Schiller

Today's post is to recognize this amazing boy we are honored to call our son. This amazing boy who is caring, sensitive, loving, funny, strong, handsome, and loyal.  This amazing boy named Jagger, who continuously displays his strength and love of family every day.  He is so active in sports and gym, maintains high honor roll in school, plays first chair cello in orchestra and can probably beat any xBox video game within 45 minutes of purchasing it.  I am most proud of his loyalty and concern for family.  His love for his sister Dakota has grown over the years to what we see as a friendship I am sure they will treasure forever.  He has a great sense of humor and has a great time being goofy with us, and shares a smile that will light up any room and warm any heart.  His goal is to become a Navy Seal and he has the determination and drive that could make that happen.  Similar to the determination and drive that his dad continues to display as he accomplishes his dreams and goals.

departure day to PCT - 2011

Jagger was only 8 years old when Teddy hiked the PCT - old enough to feel his dad's absence but not quite old enough to perhaps truly understand his role in Scarecrow's success in hiking that trail.  Conversations were had, explaining how much it meant to daddy to have his support and love, because he wouldn't have left without it.  Of course, in true Jagger fashion, he made it through like a champ.

This time around, I notice more questions, and a bit more resistance about his absence, because they continue to bond as father and son, over hockey, xBox game time, trips to the barber, working around the house and it will be more difficult for Jagger to be without his dad.  He will continue to play an important role in the success of his father's adventure.  Although he will not see him daily, he has been told the continued success of his academics, music, sports and character will fuel his father's positivity and strength to complete this trail.

Jagger is now 11, turning 12 about the time Teddy will arrive back home a triple crown hiker.  He has matured and grown into a fine young gentleman, displaying traits and characteristics of his brave, strong, caring, determined, adventurous loving father.  The cap he is wearing in the picture is one we purchased for Scarecrow's hike, and Jagger always has a joking comment about it when Teddy is wearing it.

Teddy has told Jagger, every single time he puts that cap on, he will chuckle about all of the comments and jokes Jagger made.  Another way to remind him of the love and support he has back home by this amazing boy we raised named Jagger.

You are my superhero, Jagger, and I appreciate the love, support and strength you show me and our family every day.  On the last hike Daddy took, you stepped up and took on responsibilities to help in his absence.  You have already told me you will do the same this time.  I am grateful and appreciative of your thoughts and actions. You continually remind me of what an honor it is to call you my son, and have you call me Mom.

Blessed beyond belief,

The Thruhiker's Wife