4 Sam

Between an unusually clingy baby, and coordinating birthday celebrations, it's been a long two days, and this blog entry has taken a bit of a back seat. Ordinarily, this kind of delay would bend me out of a shape a bit, but not my Sam. Sam, the epitome of chill, simply takes everything in his stride, trusts the process, and without any apparent preparation, times things to perfection.

So here is his birthday post: without prior planning, and still published just in time!


Dear Sam

Today you are four years old, and it's like, since this morning, someone has turned a switch. All at once, there is no more toddlerness left; only big boy. You suddenly look taller, and fuller; you do things differently; and you sound so much smarter and more grown up.

I recall fondly your baby days, and relish the bits of you that have remained throughout the changes. 
Like how your joy still takes over your entire face as your smile stretches wide, and your eyes scrunch up in delight. And how I am regularly undone by your cheeky sense of humour and infectious laugh - often at the most inappropriate times and situations.

They say no one tests a parent's gangster quite like a second child, and you are no exception. I distinctly remember a post not long after you were born predicting a third child based on your already emerging middle-child syndrome. Your strong will and quiet assurance puts mine to the test as you challenge and redefine every idea of normal that I have. Since the start, you sing your own tune, your own way, in your own time, leaving me sometimes anxious, often exhausted, and yet, always proud. I love that you live life passionately, with disregard for expectations, limitations or regrets - and that you make me want to do the same.

You are my wild card; my every-day-a-new-adventure. From your insightful musings about the world, to your lavish affection, you change perceptions and people for the better. My life is so much richer, just for having you in it.

As you enter this exciting chapter of growing independence, I look forward to seeing all the new things you - and I - will learn. I pray that the world is kind, that you will know hope, and that you will always remember I'm never too far for you to stretch out your hand and feel mine.

Happy birthday, you silly goose. I love you so!

Mommy x

Fireman Super-Sam