Another year older...

Caleb,

It was 4 years ago that God made me a mommy on your special birthday.  It has been an amazing learning experience to say the least.  You have taught me so much about myself as well as seeing the world again through the eyes of a little boy.  You are such a smart little guy.  Your love for all animals remains and you are all about playing with trains.  In fact, the only birthday request you had this year was for some more "straight train tracks" so you could build huge tracks all over the living room.  What a simple thing, but so important to you! 
You are a sensitive guy and never let a friend or family member leave without a hug and a kiss.  The joy that hugs give you is such a blessing to see.  You are always stopping during busy days just to ask me for a hug.  And I usually need one being the not so sensitive person I can be.  That is awesome and I hope you are never afraid to ask for a hug if you need one or see that someone else does.
Caleb you continue to be a good big brother to Elizabeth.  She adores you even though you like to push her buttons at times.  I can see that you genuinely love her by the gentle way you bring her toys and always want to be there when she wakes up in the morning or at naptime.  You can make her laugh and smile at the drop of a hat.  I hope you always have that special sibling bond.
Three was a bit of a challenging age.  You have become pretty independent and don't always want to follow directions.  It has been a power struggle to get you to listen sometimes.  I think that is pretty normal for your age though.  It helps that you are a cutie!
I am excited for the following year and all that it will bring for you.  You are going to start your first sports-flag football this spring and then preschool in the fall.  I think you will enjoy both and look forward to watching you grow even more!
I hope to nurture your little spirit more this year and that you learn how much God loves you.  I thank God for the gift of being your mommy and pray that I can grow with you.  You will always be my little "buddy."  I love you Caleb!