his birthday

was celebrated a day early:  donuts for breakfast; a book, yogurt-covered pretzels, an X-Box game, $20 from g-ma/g-pa barry, and his very own fishing pole for gifts; the privilege to BUY his lunch at school; ding dongs for class treat; 9 candles to blow out- 2 times; chicken a la fallbrooke for dinner; cold stone mint ice cream cake for dessert; an early birthday party at a local hotel/pool; and a baby brother or sister on his actual birthday.  what more could a 9-year-old boy want?  [hopefully nothing]

Dear Nolan,

You are such a delightful kid.  You are every parent’s dream:  you’re obedient, remorseful and apologetic when you’re not, happy, loving, tender-hearted, enthusiastic, eager to please, sensitive to others’ needs, you love to be affectionate, you are kind and thoughtful, brilliant and excited to learn new things, excited to be a boy scout and serve a mission and keep our family scripture reading consistent, organized, honest, fair, and so much fun to have around.

I am so lucky to be your mother.  You make me smile at your funny thoughts and loving ways every day.  I can already tell you will be such a wonderful husband and father just by the strengths you have as a 9-year-old.  You make me cry at how tender-hearted and honest you are.  You make me proud when you ask me if there’s anything you can do for me.  I truly couldn’t ask for a better brother and son. 

You are so thrilled to have the privilege of sharing a birthday with your newest sibling.  I hope you will always remember how excited you are and how special you feel to share this day- and that April 7th will always be a day you look forward to every year.  I know that you will be a huge help to me and your new brother or sister.  I am so excited to watch you shine as a big brother once again.  For sure, this kid will admire you and look up to you just like Ray and Savannah do. 

Thank you for being such a good example to me of love and fairness and service and kindness and compassion.  I love you!

Love,

mom