I cannot believe that my youngest son… my rambunctious… hilarious… sweet… loving… smart… adventurous…atheltic… handsome… knock knock joke telling little man… is turning 3 this weekend. I have been reflecting back all week on the year that has past since I wrote about his 2nd birthday this time last year and it is completely surreal that it has been a year. I wanted to go back and read what I wrote but unfortunately… the system only lets me go back 6 months so my reflecting is from memory alone… which may be better actually…
This past year has been such a year of growth for both of us… week by week and month by month… we have come so far with being able to talk and share with each other on the phone… through his mastery of the English language and my clumsy attempt to connect with him through any means possible. Who knew that getting a 2/3 year old who’s only knowledge of a phone involves facetime to want to talk, share, laugh and joke with his Dad while an automated lady tells us that “this call is from a federal prison” twice in 15 minutes would be such a tall order 😉 But no matter the obstacle… me and my buddy have found a way to make it happen. Learning and growing together in the only way that we can in our circumstances… Continuously reminding myself that it is not going to be perfect… it is not going to always be easy but it is possible and as long as I just keep at it… our unique bond will continue to flourish.
I am so proud of the boy that he is and is becoming with every passing day. Although the pain of not being able to be physically with him is ever present… the joy that I get from hearing his voice on our calls… listening to him playing in the background while I talk to his brother… the pictures I receive of their adventures or just the ones where I can see him navigating life through a candid snap shot… serves as a band aid that will have to suffice until we are on the other side of this reality.
So… to my little buddy…I wish you nothing but days filled with happiness… peace… laughter… adventures… water balloon fights… Paw Patrol shows and all the pizza, sandwiches, carrots with whole foods ranch dressing, ice cream and avocados a boy could possibly enjoy! I am beyond words in love with you bubba… I miss you more than I could ever imagine being able to feel an emotion and I am so profoundly proud to be your Dad. I hope you have the most incredible 3rd birthday… I cannot wait to be able to celebrate you… by your side… every single day of your life on the other side of this journey.
Happy, Happy, Happy Birthday 🙂
Stay Healthy. Stay Active. Never forget to celebrate the ones you love every single chance you get.