Thursday, March 17, 2011

6!!!


(This was supposed to go up yesterday, but I ended up getting called in to work. Sorry, buddy.)

Look at you, I can't believe it. I blinked and you turned into a young man. Six years old! How could that be possible? I remember the day you were born with intricate detail; how could that have been so long ago? You were my cute little guinea pig, how I got my mommy legs. Thanks for helping me learn how to take care of you.

I have really enjoyed this past year with you. Especially your quest for knowledge. I have watched in awe as you have begun to read. I am amazed at your progress.

I love your questions. So many questions. Sometimes, I really have to think about what you're asking me. And sometimes, I still don't know the answer, like how wind energy is turned into electricity. I mean I get the basic idea, but how it it's stored and then put back out there, well, I just don't know. But with this, like the question about why chocolate is bad for dogs last week, you remind me that "you can check your Google, Mom."

I love how you care for people. You are so good at seeing needs and trying to meet them, especially for me and your sister--you are particularly sweet on the girls in your life. This morning you told me, "If Ella cries in the van, I'm going to give her my blanket." That just melts me, sweet boy. Occasionally you try to help your brother, and he doesn't always go along, but don't stop trying, okay? He may not realize it, but I think he appreciates you very much.

I love that you like to talk to everyone you meet. Your confidence and fearlessness is admirable. And not just talk to them, but tell them about your day and introduce your brother and sister even. You want to be known.

I appreciate your naivete, and I mean that in a good way. The world is a magical, wonderful place in your eyes; I hope you can hold on to that for as long as possible.

I love that you trust me. Like when I tell you that I'll bring a sack lunch to you at school. You know that I'm going to bring it; even if I'm running late, you go to the cafeteria and sit patiently for me instead of grabbing a tray. It's a lesson for all of us really.

I love how funny you are. You are so silly and tickly and are always looking for ways to make us laugh.

I love how you told Ms. S. at school that you were going to marry her when you grow up since she doesn't have a husband. See, you're always caring for people. You love completely and extravagantly.

I love you, Jackson. Daddy and I are so proud of you. Keep working and loving and laughing, and you will go far.

Monday, March 14, 2011

4!!


Happy Birthday, to my middlest! You are four years old today. I can hardly believe it.

I love your little smile, like you know what's up and it's a secret to be kept from everyone else.

I love that you like to punch and kick and rough and tumble, but you still ask for frequent hugs from Mommy.

I love that you are a morning person, because even though I am not, I have to be up anyway and it might as well be pleasant. You make it so.

I love your feet. Love. them. And this from a girl who pretty much hates feet otherwise.

I love your face too. I love how your nose curves down ever so slightly before turning up again.

I love that you are coming into your own as a big brother to your sister. I know that it has been difficult and that it seems she mostly just takes your stuff, but she loves you very much and is so sweet, and I think you're beginning to see that now.

I love how you say things. Things like, "Where are dee? (they)." I'm not too quick to correct you on this particular favorite of mine. Oh, I guess I will someday, but I kinda like how it keeps you from growing up too fast.

I love that you want to snuggle. Still. Even if it calls you out of bed at 1 a.m. to stand next to mine and ask, "Mom, can I sleep with you?" I usually acquiesce for a moment or two, but you are typically too active for me to let you stay very long--my own childhood sleeping habits coming home to roost.

I love when you ask if you are handsome in your outfit and then you nod in agreement when I tell you that you are. Sometimes you throw a little "yeah" in there even.

I love that you say, "Happy Birthday to you too, Mom."

I am so glad to be your mommy. I hope you have an awesome day at school!