Dear Big Kid,

Five years ago today, I met you for the first time.

I remember gazing down at you the day after you were born (I was tired, drugged, and worried about your resemblance to an alien on that first day), and knowing with absolute certainty that you would go on to do great things.

I am even more sure of that fact five years later, now that glimpses of the person you're becoming have emerged. I can't even tell you how proud I am of you. I am incapable of being humble when it comes to people complimenting you. I can't just smile, nod, and thank the people who tell me you are beautiful or intelligent or funny, instead I find myself agreeing and adding to the list of qualities.

You are an amazing little guy. I enjoy every day with you and am so excited to watch you on this journey through life. It's a neat feeling to have made such a fantastic person, and to be a part of something so great, and have front row seats to the show of his life.

I hope your fifth year is as much fun as your fourth was. You have grown so much and learned so much and are such a good boy. Every night when I go to bed, I think of you and your brother and feel warm and happy and oh so lucky to be your mom.

So Happy Birthday, Big Guy! I like you, I love you, and I'll always protect you.

Yours Forever (and Ever),
Mom