This weekend we’re celebrating my first born’s birthday. He turned eight on Friday, but somedays he seems to be going on twelve. And other days he still love to cuddle and have deep talks with me. I cherish those days because they come infrequently and I know they’ll end well before I’m ready.

One of my favorite birthday traditions around our house is to tell the kids their birth story. It’s the first request they make as soon as they wake up. We all cuddle and share every last detail – even before birthday breakfast treats and presents. I asked my son where he wanted me to start the story this year and he said “where your water pump broke, mom”.

I remember that day so vividly. And every birthday since. Each year is bittersweet for me but I love making those days incredibly special for each of my kids. This year was no exception – he spent the afternoon with his buddies playing trampoline dodge ball ’till they collapsed, had donuts for breakfast, chose every meal for practically three days and went to the Trailblazer’s game with his dad. Not too bad.

His First Birthday

With an early February birthday, he knows that we can officially start planning his celebration the day after Christmas. My daughter’s birthday is two months later and we’ll plan hers the day after his special day. I’m fairly confident that she looks forward to his birthday only for it to pass so that we’re that much closer to hers!

Second Birthday with Elmo

Each year has brought so many wonderful memories. As I look through our photo albums I love  reminiscing about that exact moment in time, when my babies where babies. I can spend hours going through those pictures.

Six going on sixteen.

When my babies where born I couldn’t imagine life getting any better, but somehow it does each year. With every passing day I am more proud to be called this guy’s mom. It seems crazy how he can bring more laughter and smiles, along with tears of joy into our live each day.

While there’s so many special things about my son, one thing I admire the most is that he has been the best big brother for his little sister that we could ever imagine. They play so well together and he’s always looking out for her. Most days they’d rather stay home to play together than go out and have fun with friends. Sure they have their moments, but she still calls him her BFF.

Best big brother ever

Happy birthday sweetheart. Thank you for making my life a joy each day. Someday, when you’re a parent, you’ll understand just how much I love you.