Eldon's fourth birthday

To Eldon, on your fourth birthday--

Today, at The Commons, I leaned against the wall with my coffee, waiting for you. You'd been in the potty for quite some time, but it was our special morning out, so I was not in a hurry. Suddenly I hear you, voice echoing off the walls-- "I love you so much mommy!" 

"OK, but do you need help yet?"

"No. I just love you."

Don't I know it! :) You are so affectionate, especially when we are alone together.  Today was wonderful. We went to the Bakery, just the two of us, and you chose a huge chocolate brownie.  We sat at the window, watching the cars and birds while we ate. ("I just love you mommy, so so much," you said.)

We were the only ones at the indoor playground. I let you talk me into climbing with you.  You normally go up only a level or two. I sat with you and then said, "Let's go up just one more." 

"One more?" You were unsure and nervous. 

"Yes, just one more. Take my hand."

You did, and we enjoyed the view again.

"I think I'll do one more, Eldie. That next part doesn't look too far away."
"One more? Ok mama. Wait for me."

Gently, I encouraged you, and suddenly you found yourself at the top.  You could hardly believe how tall you were, how big it seems to be up high and to be four.

"Mama look at those worker mans on the roof over there!"  Then, "OK, let's get down now."

You are often the child in the middle, squished by siblings on either side.  Yet those brothers and sisters love you dearly.  For your birthday, they spent two hours making you pictures and gathering some of their toys and precious buddies to give to you. Your sister Aggie also used some of her own candy to make treat bags for everyone, then she hid them around the house. She likes party games!

Eldie, we love you, so so much.

Happy fourth birthday!

Love Mom

And because I could not resist the nostalgia that comes with birthdays, here are some baby pictures!