Nine!

Nathaniel,

It's unbelievable to me that you've been with us almost a full decade! Virtually every decision Daddy and I have made over the last nine years has been with you in mind. From big decisions like how we spend our money, when and where we vacation, and what kind of cars we drive, to smaller decisions like what time we're going to eat supper and what to do on Saturday afternoon ... you've had an impact on all of that.

While it was wonderful to have "just you, Nick and Jake" for several years, this Fall, you became a big brother for the third time, and as usual you have risen admirably to the challenge. As a matter of fact, to you, it seems like -- aside from being really excited to welcome Amelia to the family -- for you it's really been no big deal! You dote on her, help me pacify her when she's fussy, assist me in grabbing diapers and wipes, and always, always love on her so kindly. Thank you for your tenderness!

Third grade has been a breeze for you, for the most part. You're having a little trouble memorizing your multiplication tables, and you try to rush a little too often while finishing your work, but reading and spelling are your strongest subjects. You're a lot like me in that respect, but I really hope the math talent is going to kick in soon. You should have inherited that from Daddy.

Most of the time when I'm not sure where you are, I can find you in your bed playing on your laptop or reading a Harry Potter or Percy Jackson book again. You're comfortable being by yourself, but you love your siblings, too. You can be quiet, pensive ... but you can scream and yell with the best of them, too. You're affectionate, but you're also reaching the age where you've started shying away from too much affection ... I'm dreading the day when you don't want my occasional casual hugs anymore.

You tell me you're never going to leave me, that you'll only ever live "one street away ... well, maybe TWO," and I have to tell you, it'll break my heart in a few years when you change your mind. I know I'm going to have to let you go. I know I'm going to have to let you grow. I know I'm going to have to watch you do it on your own.

But just know this ... it won't be easy for me. Whether you're 9, or 19, or 29 or 49, you'll always be my first-born, my baby, my everything.

I love you,
Mommy