high five

Dear Garrett,

It's hard to believe that it's been five whole years since you were born. From the very beginning you were my little miracle, and it's a miracle in many ways that we've both survived this roller coaster of motherhood and childhood, with its thrilling ups and frightening downs and occasional crazy loop-de-loops, for as long as we have. But it's been a delightful ride because you are a delightful boy.

You've been looking forward to this birthday for some time now. And why not? Five years is a big milestone! You woke up this morning to our new birthday banner hanging in your honor in the living room and breakfast from Bagel Boy.

We got ready quickly, then headed with some friends up to Pier 25 in the Tribeca neighborhood of Manhattan to introduce you to 18 rounds of miniature golf. You took to the game like a golf ball to, well -- the sand pit. But you had a fantastic time.

It was a hot, humid day, and when we got home we discovered that the birthday cake we'd made before we left had actually melted! Crazy! So instead of eating a traditional layered cake, we decided to turn that melted mess into cake balls. You joined me on an errand to the chocolate store to pick up a necessary ingredient, and I thoroughly enjoyed our outing together. We don't get nearly enough one-on-one time, and as we walked hand-in-hand through the neighborhood and talked about this and that, my heart was reminded of how lucky I am that you are mine.

You are a sweet boy, with a tender concern for others and a brand of energetic joy that often cannot be contained. You are also hilarious. I'm so glad that I've been writing down the funny things you say -- they are good for a chuckle on otherwise gloomy days. I love the way you begin the majority of your sentences with "So, Mom..." and end them with, "right?" (e.g. "So, Mom -- Phineas and Ferb is my most favorite funny show, right?") You have an overactive imagination, and a remarkably incredible memory. Your talent for finding friends anywhere you go, and particularly at the playground, boggles my own naturally shy mind. You love to play: with cars, trains, blocks, and, much to my chagrin, the scraps in the paper recycling bin. You are a good older brother and have been able to find friends in both Caleb and Matthew. They are as lucky to have you as you are to have them.

In the evening, before and after a dinner of pizza, we had a small family party. You opened presents and were delighted to find a stuffed Angry Bird, two new games, Dumbo and Curious George DVDs, and a pair of handsome new outfits. Afterward you blew out candles and ate cake balls, then laughed hysterically through a few rounds of Hungry, Hungry Hippos. It was, as you summed up at bed time, a most perfect birthday.

Happy birthday, Garrett, my dear! You will always be my first joy, and your smile will always brighten my day. Remember that I love you and am so pleased with the beautiful boy you are becoming.

Love,
Mama