Dearest Hunter,
You reminded me tonight how this is your last sleep as a four year old. Five is bittersweet for me. As Mama’s, we don’t choose favorite kids, but we do choose favorite stages -- this is most certainly one of them. You are growing into yourself, becoming more independent, but still need me just enough.
There so many things I don’t want to forget about Four Year Old Hunter, like how you are my little night owl; or how you like to layer your outfits; you have to wear Under Armour under EVERYTHING; and your really awesome ninja moves. You still don’t eat much, but you are getting better about trying new foods. You claim you love carrots and cheese now, even though I’ve never seen you eat them, maybe you’re saving that until you’re 5?
I’m not really sure what swag is, but I’m pretty sure you invented it. You carry yourself with a quiet confidence and your style, well, I have no words. Your hot pink LeBron’s are you most prized possession, and you’d sleep in them if I’d let you. You have a way of making your school uniform your own with funny glasses, a popped collar, and your hair spiked just right. You are a compassionate leader outside of our home, and your heart for Jesus is something to be envied.
I know you requested that we take ribs to school for a special treat, but I am a little relieved that we settled on Dirt and Worm cups instead. Speaking of school… you are doing AWESOME! You are making friends (Sand Cup, Michael, Gabriel), and Mrs. P has taught you so much. That lady is a saint! She has nothing but wonderful things to say about you, and that makes me so proud. I am really looking forward to having you at home all to myself next year - we’ll have so much fun!
As you lay up in your top bunk too excited to sleep, I have been busy making sure everything is perfect for your special day. Your presents are wrapped, and I’ll be up early to make your #5 pancakes. I sometimes worry about you getting slighted as our #3, and I work so hard to keep things balanced and fair. You are always a good sport and full of praise and appreciation. You notice everything, and even if I let you down, you would never let me know it. You have the sweetest, most gentle spirit, and you are so pleasing to me and daddy.
I treasure my days with you, Hunter Wade. You are full of light and are going to make some little girl’s dreams come true one day. I love that you kiss me “like I saw on TV” (and I’m wondering how much longer that will be appropriate), but for now my sweet boy, I will take those kisses however I can get them.
You only turn 5 once, so let’s celebrate!
All my love,
Mommy
