Today, my grandson Nico turns ten years old.

As his grandma, I want to say a few things about this young man, who is so special to me. I don’t quite know how to express all the love I feel and am already certain that my attempt will not measure up to what’s in my heart, but here goes anyway.

I have truly enjoyed seeing who this dear first grandson of mine is becoming as he grows into his true self. Besides loving him simply for being here—which I do with no extras added—I also appreciate many qualities that are naturally part of who he is.

First, he is attuned to what’s happening around him and quick to speak up if he thinks someone is being mistreated. I overheard him talking to two of his friends when they were playing a game recently, and he said, “It’s not nice to be mean to another person. Let’s not do that here.” Needless to say, I was impressed by both his ability to name the problem and his instinct to create a clear boundary about what was okay and what was not.

Second, he is deeply curious and loves to learn about all sorts of things. He knows more about Pompeii than I do, and I’ve been there twice. He also has a great sense of direction and has been able to tell where he is and how to get back home since he was very young. He goes deep when he learns something, and I love watching him become absorbed in the world around him.

Third, he loves his family with all of his heart. He wanted all of us there after his ear surgery, and he is patient and sweet with his little cousin Ethan, who adores him. Though his big and little sisters might occasionally drive him crazy, there is no one more protective of them than Nico.

Fourth, although he can be strong and brave, he can also share when he feels scared or unsure. That is a major compliment for a boy his age, and I am so glad he feels confident enough to communicate his real feelings.

Fifth, he loves my oatmeal and many of my honey-sweetened desserts, which, of course, makes me very happy. I will make him breakfast or bake a pie or cake for him anytime he asks, and I am always happy to watch him enjoy it.

Sixth, he has a good sense of humor and loves to laugh. He doesn’t take himself too seriously, which is a wonderful quality that will make his life—and the lives of those around him—much happier over the years. He also loves to tease me about how much taller he’s getting than I am, which is, of course, true.

Seventh, he loves physical activity and is a strong athlete. He plays goalie in club soccer, a demanding position. Even so, he stays calm and focused, doing his best, which makes me very proud of him—though I wouldn’t want to be him when the whole crowd is watching to see whether he can block a ball.

Eighth, he loves to draw and often asks for art supplies for Christmas or his birthday. He has also jumped with both feet into reading graphic novels, which pleases me greatly.

Ninth, he is genuinely lovable. I know I’m his grandma, but other people feel that way about him too, including teachers and other adults. Though he’s a head taller than many of his classmates, he has a gentle soul that anyone who knows him can see.

Tenth, he approaches life with a good attitude, doing what he needs to do and fully enjoying what he enjoys. That is a quality that will serve him well throughout his life.

So, happy birthday, my sweet Nico. I love you with all of my heart, and you can be sure of that love no matter what. I am proud to call you my grandson and look forward to watching you grow into even more of exactly who you are meant to be on this earth—a solid, decent, kind, and loving human being who makes this world a better place. What a gift you are to me and to all of our family. Thank you for being you.