I cannot believe it. Ben is SEVEN years old today. Really?! I cannot believe how quickly (and at the same time strangely slowly) it has all gone. I like to complain about how hard being a parent is, but Ben has really been such a enjoyable and easy going child. Since it is his birthday, it is time for another letter. Dear Ben:
I really have a hard time believing you are already seven. You have become a little boy overnight. You are in the first grade now and easing your way into your independence, asking us to drop you off further and further from the school's entrance. Already you are putting the brakes on the kissing and snuggling, which breaks my heart. It seems like we went from you being attached to my body to this stage in the blink of an eye. It is a good reminder to me to try to enjoy the moment and be more present with you and Sam. I learn so much from you and your brother every day.
You love video games and watching old television shows. So much so that I have a hard time plying you away. You love books and reading. It has been really exciting to watch you learn to read. When you read Dr. Seuss to Sam I thought I would melt right there. One night you told me you love your Dad more than me. It broke my heart and I was so sad even though I knew what you said was a normal thing for a kid to say. And I love how much you and Sam LOVE your dad. All three of you love to do the same things and bond over mutual interests.
I love that you hate when people sing Happy Birthday to you; that you laugh with abandon; that you hate doing homework; that you are such a good big brother; that you laugh the whole time you play in a soccer game; that your favorite food is Chinese dumplings; that you love to sleep; that you are so ticklish; that you always want to be barefoot; that you are loyal to your friends; that you are generous; that you like to help in the house; that you get excited about anything special that is happening; that you talk to me about Grant Wood and Van Gogh; that you love to draw; that you want to live on a farm; and most of all that you love your family.
I Love You, Mom
