A letter to my son on his 5th birthday -

My sweet boy,

You are five.

It sounds like such a big boy age. In the fall, you’ll be starting kindergarten. I don’t understand how time went by so quickly. It seems like just yesterday you were learning to walk, talk and navigate this crazy thing called life.

You are still such a joy. Your giggle is infectious and everyone who hears it agrees. You delight in figuring things out and your intelligence constantly astounds me. I can never remember what kids are “supposed” to know and be able to do at this age, but regardless, you make me and your father so very proud.

You are sensitive. You don’t like to disappoint us and are quick to apologize once your moments are over.

You are spirited, full of energy and zest. Running is still a pleasure for you. I remember one afternoon this fall when you ran around the house no less than 15 times. And you still weren’t tired. You’re figuring out soccer and you’re starting to master the cartwheel. We are eager to try gymnastics and baseball next.

This year you fell in love with Ninja Turtles and Power Rangers (much to my dismay) and you still love to play games on my phone. Angry Birds, Subway Surfers and Minion Rush are some of your favorites.

You love preschool. You delight in figuring out mazes and puzzles and you are starting to do basic addition. You memorized our phone numbers in case of an emergency, and you are figuring out how to spell your friends’ names. When you have play dates, you and your friends play good guy/bad guy bouncing between multiple super heroes and Power Rangers until one of you cries NO MORE.

When it comes to being a big brother, I can’t begin to tell you how amazing you are. I know she frustrates you when she takes things away from you or when she accidentally (or sometimes on purpose) makes a mess of something you’ve been creating. But you are SO very good with her. If I tell you to turn off Power Rangers, you whine and cry, but if Em comes in the room, you turn it off immediately as you know it’s not appropriate for her. You find ways to play with her and you are constantly teaching her. I give you full credit for her counting to 20, even if she isn’t a fan of the numbers 4, 5 or 6.

You have a big year ahead, my darling Wonderbug, one with lots of changes. But no matter what comes your way, I know you will flourish and prosper. Thank you for taking me on this journey with you. I can’t wait to see what’s next.