Happy 3 Years, Van

A little mom in me just crumbled a little. This evening as I was putting Van to bed, I couldn't leave his bedroom. I wanted to hang on to every last second of his 3 year old birthday as if staying longer would keep him this age forever.  I kept reading books, saying prayers, and singing songs, despite his eye-rubbing, yawns, and heavy lids.  Eventually he said, "Mom--I wuv you...Van's too tired to sing...Van goes to sleep."

I love watching him grow up, but in only 3 years, I have witnessed the capacities in which he needs me as a mother alter and slightly dwindle. More love, patience, independence, and forgiveness...less hand-holding, carrying, helping, and snuggling. Today we experienced a Van-lead menu (cinnamon coffee cake breakfast, Snoopy's Hotdogs lunch, and bacon-egg-and-cheese biscuits for dinner) and he helped me bake pumpkin cookies for all of his friends at school. We spent a long time playing outside and enjoyed his new microphone! [Thanks Auntie Snags!] We are looking forward to his party on Sunday.

A note to Van on your 3rd birthday: You have made such wonderful bonds with everyone in our family--which seems to me a sign of a very loving, nurturing, and peaceful soul. I am so lucky to be your mom. I hope I can continue to open my heart each day and dive into loving you more and more.  Will you give me front row seats to your concerts? Please stop growing up so quickly and HAPPY BIRTHDAY!! Love, Mom