Dear "L",

It seems like it was just yesterday that you came into this world tiny as can be.  Thanks for almost giving both mommy and daddy a heart attack.  You were so tiny, I had never seen, let alone held a baby that tiny before. 
You spent 27 days in the NICU before you came home.  It sure thrust me and your dad into parts of being a parent we were not prepared for.  There were some dark days during that time. 

"L" 1 day old

I will admit, I spent a lot of your first year worrying about your eating and weight gain.  But despite all of that you were suddenly 1 - and just about as cute and healthy as could be.  I couldn't believe how fast it happened!


1 year old

2 years old

3 years old

4 years old

And now you love Phineas and Ferb, Cherryberry frozen yogurt, playing outside - especially in the hose, being my garden buddy, eating samples at Costco, and any and all music.  You love figuring out how things work, and you are getting really good at putting together Lego sets!

I know this past year and a half has NOT been easy for you.  Not only did you becoming an amazing and loving big brother, but you walked along with your dad and I through some really difficult times in the process.  I know sometimes your sister gets a lot of attention.  You seem to hate it whenever she has therapy or doctor appointments, while you have to go to daycare.

But despite all of that you show nothing but love for your sister.  When she had her ear tubes placed you were so concerned for her.  You go around proclaiming to everyone has your "Lily bear" is the sweetest cutest baby in the world (your own words).  And "L" it warms my heart. 

Mommy is so happy you came first.  In ways you cannot now understand you changed my world, but also prepared me for motherhood the second time around.  And I'm so glad that your "Lily bear" has you as her big brother.  I know no matter what you will unconditionally love her, you will protect her.  She is the luckiest girl in the world to have you.

In just a few weeks you'll start Kindergarten.  How is this possible?  I know I'll cry, but at the same time I can't wait to watch as your life unfolds.  I know God has amazing plans for you little boy.

You've come SO far from those NICU days, in fact, they seem like they never even happened.
Happy birthday buddy!