Birthday Wishes to a Cute Character

Dearest Jake-

My life has been full of surprises since I met you.  You arrived 3 weeks before the doctors predicted; my littlest newborn at 7 lbs 15 oz.  Such a beautiful baby - rosy cheeks and kissable lips.  Your brother occupied our only crib, so the play n pak was set up for you.  It didn't really matter though - you've never been a great sleeper.  As a baby you much preferred sleeping RIGHT NEXT to your momma.

One of my favorite memories of you as a toddler was coming down to the kitchen and seeing you standing on a stool in you diaper (you and James had this thing about stripping down to your diapers in the morning).  You got the eggs out of the fridge, a skillet out of the cupboard, and a spatula out of the drawer.  There were about a half dozen eggs cracked into the pan with the shells tossed in the sink (just like I do it).  You weren't quite 2 years old.  I asked you what you were doing.  You said, "eggs."  Always a man of few words.

I love it when you surprise me with a note (sometimes folded in cool shapes or with pop-up features).  I love it when your whole face lights up when you smile.  I love it when out of nowhere you come squeeze me tight.  What a joy to be your mother!!!!

I love your laugh and pray that it will fill the walls of my home for years and years.  Happy 9th Birthday, my son.  I didn't imagine that I could love you any more, but I do.  Everyday it grows.

-Mom