happy number 7, to my little man.

it's been seven years and it baffles me that you no longer fit snuggly in my lap. when i caught my first glimpse of your sweet face, it was love at first sight. you were the most beautiful (and yes, handsome) baby i had ever known. it was easy to love you then, and this love i have for you has only grown stronger with each passing year, month, day, and minute.

this past year you have learned how to read, actual books, and many other things that make it difficult for daddy and i to have any spelling secrets at all. you are such a smart kid. 

you bring home amusingly creative stories, written in your first grade penmanship - which i've been told by your teacher is very "neatly and nicely done." you are a brilliant, budding writer!

you have grown several inches, outgrown two shoe sizes, lost three teeth, and you eagerly await the day you can shave. 

you squabble with your sisters, but mostly, you love them, and they have become your very best friends. as your mother, i thoroughly enjoy watching the protective and loving big brother role you have grown into. 

your laughter is as infectious as ever. your smile, so charming it melts my heart every time. i still see the brand new baby boy whenever i look into your eyes.

you are very aware of your actions and how it makes people feel. you are tenderhearted and so kind to every person you meet - making friends has always come so easy to you.

i am amazed at the qualities you already posess, and wonder how you matured so quickly. you are truly a child to rejoice in. i am proud of the good decisions you continually make. comforted by your sweet early morning snuggles. relieved by your helpful hands. entertained by your quick wit and blossoming humor. basically, you make me happy and fill my life with joy, i otherwise would never know. being your mother is a glorious privilege, and a calling i will always prize and embrace. thank you, my first born son, for making me a mama 7 incredible years ago. we love you.