On your 4th birthday, I want to share some thoughts that are close to my heart. First and foremost, I want you to know how wonderful you are. I genuinely mean it. I recognize that I can be quite demanding (okay, maybe a lot), but that comes from a place of love. I set high standards for you, often forgetting that you’re still just a little one, which isn’t fair.
Despite my expectations, you frequently rise to the occasion, and I’m so proud of you! I know there will be times when you might think your mom is a bit tough. However, I truly believe our relationship will be built on trust, mutual respect, and an abundance of love, free from silly baby talk.
You share a special connection with your dad, enjoying activities like building with Legos, playing baseball, and diving into video games and comics. Sometimes, I feel like the odd one out, especially when you both develop a taste for bands like Radiohead. But I’m not envious; your bond with him will help you become a strong and confident woman.
I admire your adventurous spirit, even when you can be stubborn. You eagerly join us in our everyday escapades, whether they involve airplanes, road trips, or even a two-hour dinner in a restaurant without other kids around. You’ve shown a remarkable understanding of humor, which just reinforces how unique you are!
Your love for clams, the way you tackle each one with determination, and your preference for fancy cheese and good salami make me smile. I also appreciate your courage; you approach new situations with confidence, whether it’s introducing yourself to new friends or asking adults questions.
Your affection towards your baby brother, whom you call “No-EEE,” and your baby sister, “Me-Lee,” is truly heartwarming. You share your favorite snacks, and I admire that you’ve never asked to “send them back.” If only I had been as kind at your age!
Always remember that if you stay true to yourself, people will genuinely appreciate you. I hope you never doubt your amazing qualities or lose sight of your inner beauty for external appearances.
Even when I get upset and lose my temper, please know it stems from my own challenges, not from a lack of pride in you. Sometimes, I feel both frustrated and proud simultaneously, and I’m still figuring out how to navigate those feelings.
You are destined to become an impressive woman, not just because of your future accomplishments (which I know will be many) but because of your kind heart. I hope you understand that when I tell you I’m busy with work, it tugs at my heartstrings a little, but my job brings me joy. I wish the same for you in whatever path you choose.
I hope you can forgive me for sharing pictures of you online. I’m careful to choose moments that I believe won’t embarrass you later. I often jump the gun, and while your birthday is still a few days away, I couldn’t wait to express my love.
Forever and always,
Mom
P.S. I know I sometimes toss out your things without asking. Instead of losing your cool, you sigh with the wisdom of someone much older and say, “Mom, I know you threw it away.” I promise, I do the same to your dad, so it’s just one of those things you both can unite over.
P.P.S. By the time you read this—if you choose to—you’ll be old enough to understand that the word “crap” isn’t bad when used in the right context.
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In summary, remember to embrace who you are, and know that I will always be proud of you, no matter what.