Dear Vincent,
Each year as the night air turns crisp and cool I’m reminded of the night you were born. That night (well, early morning technically) 5 years ago at this very moment I think of the mad rush to the hospital and those 13 days in the NICU before you were allowed to come home with us. Those days remain the longest of our lives. Sitting by your isolette, waiting for the chance to hold you, watching the leaves change colour and fall.
I look at you now, so handsome, so confident, so *full* of life and I am so thankful to have you as my son. You are the most sensitive little guy, still trying to fit into your Grandma-knit Winnie the Pooh sweater from 2 years ago because it is the last thing she made you and you miss her so much. You are so in touch with the emotions of others, giving a hug or kind word long before others even notice there is something wrong.
You are a proud big brother and a fierce protector of your family. You hold Myra’s hand to cross the road and praise her for using the potty. Your words are sincere, never forced.
You shy away from confrontation and like things to remain in balance and harmony. Your intensity defines you to this day. You feel everything passionately, fully, with a force that is unmatched (even by your mama…scary, really). You adore ‘family hugs’ and you still love to snuggle under the covers before nap (yes, you still nap in the afternoon!).
Still, you are growing up. You don’t need help zipping up your jackets anymore. You choose your clothes alone and bring your dishes to the sink. You play a little game with your Toy Story guys and tidy up, all without a word. You need to remind us sometimes that you don’t need us to help you with everything anymore,
“I can do that myself, Dad”.
Yes, you can, Vincent. You can do anything you set your mind to. We love you so much and we are so lucky to have you in our family. Happy Birthday our beautiful baby boy.
