My Beautiful Boy is 4!

Since it's after midnight, it's officially Ben's birthday. He is now 4 years old. Tonight when he went to bed I hugged for the very last time as a 3 year old and then I cried. I couldn't help it. He's growin up so fast.

He's becoming much more independent and wants to everything himself. He tells me that he's a big boy and that he can do it! He is still my cuddly, sweet boy though. He may wipe off my kisses now but he still loves to snuggle up on my lap or climb into our bed at night. Some nights he climbs in, gets between us and tell us "I missed you guys" and then he snuggles up and goes back to sleep. I try to appreciate each and every one of those moments because I never know when it'll be the last time. I know eventually he'll decide that he's to old to snuggle up with Mommy and when that day comes I'll miss it.

Over the past 4 years he has brought so much joy, laughter and love into my life. I never knew how fierce and powerful love could truly be until I first held him in my arms four years ago. He's so sweet and funny! He's really developing a sense of humor (he's going to need it in this family!). He's incredibly loving and sweet with Jillian. He is always hugging her, playing with her and telling her he loves her. He is the most amazing big brother I could have ever imagined.

There are days when he tests my patience (okay...it's more like every day who am I kidding), drives me crazy and does things he's not supposed to but I guess that's his job right? He's talkative like you wouldn't believe (well if you've met me you'd believe it LOL) and he's very bright. I've truly enjoyed watching him grow and learn over the past four years. This will be a big year for him. In the fall he'll be starting preschool every day. He'll get to ride a school bus and he's already very excited about that. Going to school will mean being away from home for a part of every day and making new friends. I know it'll be hard to send him off at first but I know he'll love it. He's a very social kid so I think he'll really thrive in school.

Well I better get to bed. We have lots to do tomorrow, well technically today, to celebrate the birthday boy! Happy Birthday Ben! I love you all the way to the moon and back.