Four Years with Arrow

My dearest Arrow-boo, even though you’re our middle child, you’re like my dessert! Thank you for being the one who goes to sleep the easiest, who tries everything on your plate, who consistently obliges my requests  and who does it all with such a sweet smile, hug and a kiss cherry-on-top! I know it sometimes seems like you need to whine, yell or even shriek to be heard in our crazy home, but I am listening to you and watching you my love.

You’ve been under my very protective wing since you were born, so tender and endearing, and even more so since the time I spent glued to the screen blipping your vitals for 6 days in the PICU early this year as we desperately watched you battling to get enough oxygen into your little body. “Virus-induced asthma” was the diagnosis... And now I’ve become vigilant about strengthening your immune system and keeping you healthy (a job that’s become considerably more intense as the world grapples with a deadly disease that is specifically dangerous for vulnerable lungs!)But through it, I’ve toppled into our family and learned how to prioritize and appreciate what matters most- our health, our happiness and living in (and enjoying) all our little moments.

I love listening to your lispy voice as you thoughtfully describe your plans, I don’t mind at all when you crawl into our bed in the middle of the night as you’re the best snuggler in the home, I think it’s so cute how attached you are to your little straw hat, I’m super impressed with how you whip on your scooter dodging countertops and tables with elegance, I think it’s hilarious when you jump up and orchestrate a performance with a “ladies and gentlemen” announcement and I adore that you’ll run all the way back to me after you’ve already left the door if we forgot to have a proper hug and kiss goodbye.

You’re such a sparkling joy in our lives and it’s filled my heart to soak in all this time with you. Happy 4th birthday my love, you’re such a treat and I will savor you forever!

Love always,
Mama