Easton,

It feels like it was yesterday that your mom was carrying around a big belly, craving dill-pickle popcorn, and worrying that the swelling in her nose would be permanent. However, it has been five years since I opened my phone to see pictures of your tiny face for the first time. That day, I rushed to the hospital after practice, and my world was changed forever when you were placed in my arms.

You were small, you were warm... honestly, you kind of looked like a little red potato, but you were perfect. You wrapped your tiny fingers around my thumb and nestled into my heart forever. It has been a privilege and an honor watching you grow and learn the last five years.

You truly are my favorite person in the world, and I will always be here for you when you need me. I wish I could stop time, or at least slow it down, so you could stay my sweet little man just a little bit longer, because, with every kiss, every game of hide and seek, and every hand-hold as we walk across the street I hold my breath hoping it is not the last. Yet, I know this simply cannot be. You must grow older, embrace the world, and experience life, and I will watch you with a proud smile on my face (and maybe a tear in my eye). However, on the day you turn five, I give these five wishes to you.

1. I hope you never lose your love for learning.

I will never grow tired of reading books with you (even when we’ve read the same one five times in a row), and I hope you never stray from asking questions and wanting to understand how the world works. Never be embarrassed or ashamed to love something openly, to ask for help when you do not understand, and to display passion when it is felt.

2. I hope you stay kind.

Every spontaneous hug, unexpected giggle, and prolonged cuddle makes my day and puts a bright smile on my face. I hope the world does not rob you of your kindness and that you remain soft in the face of adversity. Please, do not let the trials of life turn you cold. Continue to treat others how you wish to be treated. Never forget that a small compliment can go a long way, because every unexpected, “Shy, you look so pretty,” and “Mommy, I love you” can make even the worst of times better.

3. I hope you go out on your own but never stray far from home.

Leaving home is part of life. It’s inevitable, but that doesn’t mean it hurts any less. I hope you go off, see the world, and have great adventures, but always come back home. Don’t forget the ones that love you, and please never get too old to hold my hand as we cross the street.

4. I hope you never lose your laughter.

I hope as you grow you never forget to be silly. Find the humor in the little things, and you’ll always have happiness. I hope you hold on to it. Cherish it. Always share it with others. Use it to make the world a better place, because happiness truly is infectious.

5. I hope you always feel loved.

You bring happiness to us all, and I hope that no matter what life brings, no matter how tough things get, or how lost you may feel, you never forget that your family will always love you. Know that we are always just a phone call or car ride away and will be there when you need us.

I hope you have the happiest of birthdays and know that I am always thinking of you. Today, you are five, and in the blink of an eye, you’ll be an adult. You’ll go away, have your own life, and your own adventures, but just know that no matter what, you’ll always be my little man.

I love you with all my heart,

Aunt Shy