Four

Dear Declan,

Happy 4th Birthday Little Man! Can you please tell me how it is that you are four years old already? I can't seem to figure it out. I'm pretty sure I was just in the hospital snuggling your 7lb 7oz little body in the crook of my arm. I was so unaware of the joy, craziness, spunk, love and loudness you were about to bring to our family. And I wouldn't change any of it for the world. Well maybe the loudness, nah....that's what makes you you!

You are our little firecracker. That red hair is no understatement for your personality. You are full of life, vibrance, laughter and a whole lot of craziness that I can't even begin to explain. You have brought a level of affection to our family that is beyond my wildest dreams. I can't imagine our family without you.

In the past year you have grown into such a little man. You've started preschool and you love it. You can be shy at times and we were nervous what school would be like for you but you have surpassed our expectations and are doing great. You have become a little social butterfly as well, making friends and enjoying life as a preschooler. Your sad when its not a school day and you can barely contain yourself when it is.

Your stubborn. You learn at your own pace. You love Star Wars. You want to wrestle. You are a sucker for reverse psychology. Your affectionate. You never stop talking, ever. You love destroying things, especially anything constructed by your brothers. Your detailed. You have the best red curly hair. You love telling stories, especially when your brothers aren't around. You love to color but only in black. Your carefree. Your spirited. Your feisty. Your the most amazing 4 year old I know.

Four years ago today our life changed forever. Not only did we bring you into this world but we also embarked on a new adventure as a family. Just 9 days after you were born your daddy started a new job, in a new state. Two weeks later we joined him. So your birthday is a symbol of a lot of change in our life. Change that was good. You've changed our lives little man. You've taught me patience and love and more patience. You've made me a better mother. So today we celebrate your life. We love you Little Man. May God Bless you today and every day.

Love,
Mommy and Daddy.