Five!

Sweetest boy. 
We are so proud of you.
Proud of your bravery this year - facing school, making friends, branching out.
Proud of your kindness every day - to your brother, to your doggy, to your friends.
Proud of your creativity - building car washes out of wood blocks, making bathtub milkshakes.
Proud of your intellect - endless questions, counting, writing, spelling your favorite food "BL-BRE" and your name.
Most of all, we are proud of your heart.

Instead of presents from your friends, we asked for books for one of our favorite non-profits, Rohr Rockstars.  Instead of tears or whining, you said, "OK" and even posed for a picture holding the heavy pile.

Even though you are starting to rough-house with your brother, you always make sure he is okay - even after the accidental bump.  You know what what he needs before we do.  You like to touch his face and talk to him in the sweetest voice.

On your special day, you chose to run errands with Mommy and picked out two Christmas presents for children who would not have a Christmas otherwise.  Your heart shined through when you picked out a present you would have liked to keep for yourself but wanted another little boy to enjoy it.

At dinner each night, you add something to the blessing.  You, alone, are a blessing, but your prayers are always thoughtful and selfless.  You thank God for your family, our safety, and you remember to pray for your uncle specifically remembering the place where he is deployed.

You are the best snuggler and freely hand out "I love yous" when they are needed most or - even better - just because.  You have so much love in your heart; you are loved so much. Adored beyond words.

Happy 5th birthday, big guy. 
We love you!