Last night, we cuddled under your dream tent and read Goodnight, Goodnight Construction Site. As I read you squeezed my arm and said, “I love you, Mama” with your double-dimpled smile.

“I love you, too, Will. I want you to stay this age forever.”

“But I won’t,” you said so matter-of-factly.

And my heart ached a bit—tracing back to when your big brother was five and he’s now 10 years old strutting double digits, glasses, and a shoe size the same as mine. My eyes grew watery thinking about how fast time has gone with you and your siblings. And how you only have a few months left of morning preschool with Mrs. Brenda and Mrs. Ashley. In the fall, you’ll be heading out the door with a backpack and lunch sack just like your brother and sisters.

How can it be? Just yesterday I was teaching you how to walk, drink from your sippy cup, and pick up frozen blueberries on your high chair tray to ease the pain from teething. It was just yesterday you needed the comfort of my breasts and cradling you in my arms before nap time. Now you’ve outgrown your naps and prefer to play the day away. Just yesterday, you sat in the jogging stroller with Goldfish and lollipops so Mommy could get her walk in. Now, you’d rather walk beside me.

You’re saying words that are so grown-up and are a caring friend to your buddies. Your fits are becoming less and you’re learning how to problem-solve. You get dressed on your own and are able to communicate everything you need.

The age you’re at right now just might be my favorite of all.

Five. A whole handful.

Five. On the verge of a big boy, but just enough of a baby face that’s still so kissable.

Still in need of Mommy when you’ve fallen, cut yourself, or can’t reach your favorite cup on the countertop. Still so cute with the funny words you string together and the creative thoughts that go through your mind. Still and always, the baby of our family.

The days are long but the years are short couldn’t be more true. I’ll treasure the moments we’ve had together as mommy and son. We’ve had our challenges and tears, but the joys outweigh them all. Being able to be by your side in every stage of development has been the biggest blessing of all and I look forward to continue watching you grow.

Kindergarten isn’t too far off so let’s keep embracing the days we have together, just you and me.

But will you still stay five years old forever?

Love,
Mama

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