Slow Down, You're Moving Too Fast

Dear Hunter:

Last week you turned six. There are some days where it feels like you are six going on sixteen (like the days when you tch me, or roll your eyes, or tell me I'm uncool). Other days it feels like you are six going on sixty (like when you say things that are wise beyond your years - being unwise a good example doesn't come to mind as I write this). But most of all it just feels like you are growing up too fast and the time is escaping us. I'm not going to tell you about all the ways you've changed and grown in the last year so I'll just tell you about the last week.

Last week we went to Saskatoon as I had to go to a conference and thought it would seem better if you guys were there with me. You, Julia and Dad spent the days water sliding and swimming, colouring, hanging out, and riding the elevator (where Dad tells me you guys discussed what other things could start with M other than main and you surprised him by saying migration). When we drove home you only asked two times if we were there yet (which, believe me, is a big improvement).

The very next Dad had knee surgery so you and Julia spent the day with Grandma. You guys love spending time with Grandma so it was a real treat for you. Being home also meant being back at school but that was okay because you love school. You especially love spending time with your friends there so to share your birthday celebration we sent a pile of cupcakes. Grandma tells us the container came back covered in chocolate so I'm not sure you carried it as diligently as we discussed but I am sure that you enjoyed yourself anyway.

Since Dad got home from the hospital you have been an extremely helpful boy (which isn't a surprise because mostly you are very helpful). You've been helping Mummy a lot with Julia (playing, organizing, translating, etc.), helping to set the table and helping when Dad isn't as able to move around (like crutches and carrying a glass of water don't go together as well as you might think).

Hunter, you are such a sweet, considerate, and caring boy and I love this about you. It does make me worry, but as you are getting older I'm discovering that the worrying never really goes away it just changes over time. I'm also discovering that while you are sensitive you are also very strong.

Being off work to help Daddy while he recovers has been a real gift because it has meant that you and I get afternoons as our special time. This time with you has meant the world to me. Hunter James, I love you to the edge of the universe and back. You are the most special little guy and I am blessed to have you in my life. Happy 6th birthday to all of us.

Love Mum

Two Two Two!!

Dear Julia,

You are two! Two! But I don't have to tell you that, you already know as evidenced by your holding up two fingers and saying two. It really doesn't feel possible to me that you could be two because it wasn't that long ago that I was holding that tiny new baby in my arms, or carrying you around in your car seat, or propping you up way too early in your bumbo, or taking you to Mom and baby yoga, or attempting Mom and Baby Yoga as you escaped. And now you are holding up two fingers and saying two. Or loading your dishes into the dishwasher, or wiping the floor, or brushing your teeth obsessively, or playing dolls, or reading stories, or watching Barney! Elmo! or Dooa! The TV watching is new but you definitely want your 'mote when the TV is on so you can watch one of your shows. My favourite thing that you are doing right now, though has to be this:
J: Mummy?
M: What?
J: Lau la (love you).
J: Daddy?
J: Julia?
J: Lau la.
And repeat. At least five times. And sometimes, for good measure, you throw in a Hunter? lau la too. You give great kisses and the most wonderful hugs (squeeze hugs with a grunt for good measure).

Oh, and another thing I love right now - you've discovered me. Meaning you. You look in the mirror and say me. Yes, there you are you wonderful you.

Ooh, ohh and crazy. You've discovered crazy, which is crazy awesome. You take your finger and circle it near your temple and go woo woo and point at whichever one of us is apparently acting crazy.

Oh, and you are obsessed with butts, which is bordering on the embarrassing. I can only blame it on your love of your brother and all that time you spend with him because really, where else could it come from?

You are getting more independent all the time - you walk from the gym to the edge of the sidewalk all by yourself. You get your coat and boots ready (and off, usually two seconds after being strapped in the car). You know when it's time to go potty even if sometimes we don't.

Julia, my sweet crazy mazy - We love you forever, like you for always, as long as we're living our baby you'll be. Lau la.

Love Mum, Dad, and Hunter
P.S. One day I'll actually read you that story and make it to the end instead of choking up and getting Daddy to finish it.