Five Years Later

Dear Ethan:

Happy FIFTH birthday! Today is the day you've been looking forward to for weeks now.  I think this is the first year that you've waited for your birthday in eager anticipation, and I've loved witnessing it! Yesterday, I made a big deal about it being your last day as a four-year-old.  You, however, were more than ready to be five.  I had to smile (even though you were completely serious) when you asked me, while running errands for your party, "Mom, when I wake up tomorrow, will I still be this size?". You keep us laughing, that's for sure.

Your fifth year has also elicited a large number of tears.  Probably not as many as your first, but you and I have struggled to find our groove this year.  We still have a lot of work to do, but I'm confident that - with lots of prayers, grace, and forgiveness - we'll figure it out.  I asked your Granny one day if parenting you gave me a glimpse into what it was like to parent me.  She laughed at me and quickly dismissed my question.  Apparently, I was even more stubborn than you are! You and I may butt heads until we're both old and gray, but I hope you'll never doubt that my love for you is just as fierce.

My biggest prayer for you is that you would grow into a kind, respectful man who loves the Lord.  You are already asking really tough questions about God, and I pray continually for the wisdom and patience to handle your curiosity.  You are so smart, Ethan, but don't ever let the intelligence of your brain trump the truth that's in your heart.  And we all know how incredible that heart of yours is.

Five is going to be a big year for you! In just a few short months, you'll start Kindergarten and enter a whole new phase of "growing up".  I'm sure you're going to change so much over this next year! I've also been wondering lately if this is the year that you'll have another heart surgery.  I am already praying for you, and for your Daddy and me, as we prepare for such a huge chapter in your story.  You can be sure that, no matter when or where, we will be by your side, cheering you on, just as we did that first year.

Daddy and I love you so much, Ethan! Your laugh makes our days brighter and your smile is contagious.  You bring so much joy to our lives! Happy birthday, sweet boy.  I look forward to celebrating you for many years to come.

Love,

Mom