About Sam

Happy Birthday to my sweet boy, Samuel!  He turned the big 5 on Friday, and oh how I cried.  On the night before his birthday, as I hugged him, I couldn't stop thinking that this is the last time I'll ever hug him as a 4-year-old.  A five-year-old seems light years older than four.  Why?  I suppose it has something to do with the fact that he'll be in kindergarten this fall and going to school every day.  And I suppose it has something to do with the fact that he says things like "Wow!  That's an incredible feat!"   And the other day when he forgot to put the liner in the shower he said, "I apologize mommy, I didn't realize I was making such a mess."  What can you say to that?  Okay kid, no problem.  Are you 5 or 40?

Samuel has a heart of gold.  He is so sensitive and cares very much how people feel.  You'd be hard pressed to find a better older brother because he constantly helps his sisters and Ethan (almost too much) and he defends his family to anyone who dare make a crack at one of us.  He is very bright and it shows in his ability to pick up vocabulary quickly, knowing not just the words, but the accurate definitions and use of them as well.  He loves all things carnivore - dinosaurs, snakes, crocodiles, alligators and sharks are his favorite.  He jams to Peter's music with Guns 'n Roses, Nickelback, AC/DC and Bon Jovi ranking at the top of his favorites, and he only tolerates my music.  His desired meal is pasta or pepperoni pizza, his candy of choice is sour patch kids, he hates soda and loves milk, offer him a cookie and he'd never turn it down.  And he's such a home body.  He's happiest playing at home with his toys, outside riding his bike, eating food at our house, and nearly always with his shoes and socks off.  We have to convince him to go anywhere other than a play group with friends or Reptile Gardens.  He is a devoted friend, and always has a smile and a hug ready to dole out.

Here's a walk down memory lane, and one of my favorite pictures of Samuel from each year of his life.

A few weeks after Samuel was born.

Samuel at 1, two months before his baby brother Ethan was born.

Samuel shortly after he turned 2, enjoying a major snow storm and the results left behind on the back deck.

Samuel at 3, just beginning to discover the joy of climbing trees.

Samuel at 4, playing outside in the big swing.

Samuel at 5, celebrating his 5th birthday.

Happy Birthday, buddy!  We love you!  You've been a joy to us every day and we are so proud of you!