Another Year

Another year of tears, laughter, anger, time-outs, memories, hugs, kisses and I love you's. Another year of you growing up and becoming more and more independent. And developing into a handsome young man. You're discovering yourself every day. You're developing into a young man and it makes my heart ache that you're growing up so fast, but it also makes me so incredibly happy and excited about the future.
On August 18th you turned 5. Where has time gone? Where has my baby gone? You're growing before my eyes and you make me so incredibly proud every day. You are my sunshine, the reason behind my smile, the reason why I laugh and why my heart is full. You are my baby, always and forever.
There are so many things that have gone on in your life this past year. You've broken a toe, busted your head open, broke a window playing baseball, have learned to read, help with chores, got a new pet have gained a new cousin and have 2 more on the way. You are capable of doing things that you use to need me for.  You no longer need me to open the car door and un/buckle you in your carseat. You no longer need me to lift you up to wash your hands. You no longer need me to help you put your dishes away.  You have taken more interest in helping me cook/bake...actually you love it. You help me vacuum. You help me with taking the trash out. And you have been nothing but responsible with Max.
You crack me up. You test my patience. You have learned to lie. You make me laugh. You still ask to cuddle with me. And you want to hold my hand when we're laying in bed. You still tell me you love me.  You have a stubborn attitude.  You know to always look me in my eyes when you apologize.  You use your manners.  And you cross your arms and huff "I don't care".  You pretend you're an adult and try and tell me what to do.  You love your family like crazy.  You still win strangers over with your flirtatious personality.  You always want to be on the go. And always have to be doing something.  You love your hair long and will not allow anyone to cut it.  You are still absolutely without a doubt a sports fanatic.  You are Andersen, your own person, with your own opinions and personality. You are my son, my baby, my love of my life. 
I could not be any more proud of you and the young man you're turning into.
There may be days where we're at wits ends with one another, but my love, admiration, respect, continuous happiness is all because of you. I can't remember what my life was like before you and I most definitely cannot imagine my life without you.

Happy Birthday Andersen!!!
I hope you had a great birthday and I hope you know how important you are to me!!!