you're 5, ethan!!

my dearest ethan

5 yrs ago, i held you in my arms for the very 1st time - just almost the size of a loaf of bread. i can't believe you're tall enough to go on roller coaster rides now!

then, u were just all fragile and delicate, and i was too afraid to even give u a bath on my own for fear of breaking your neck!! today, you're taking your own showers (ok with like 20% assistance from daddy or me) and always running ahead of me whether we're in the malls or just going down the street to the park.

all u did then was gurgle and drool - now u can hold intelligent conversations with us and u just never cease to surprise us with your observations and analysis of the world around you. sometimes u r logical and thoughtful... at other times you're just cheeky and reminding us that you're still a 5 yr old :)

and your drawings... i LOVE all of your drawings, cos u put so much detail into them. i enjoy listening to u tell me all about what you've drawn. you're also really good at putting lego pieces together, and i can safely say that you are far more superior in lego skills than i ever will be! (it's a boy thing, according to daddy)

one thing that hasn't changed though, is your kind hearted, warm and friendly nature. you've always been a bubbly little boy with a really big heart - your mind incapable of harbouring any mean thoughts. u give in readily to your little sister, sometimes with a little grumble, but most times your protectiveness over her brings a certain warmth to my heart. i know u will always look out for her, even at times when daddy or i are unable to. when i sometimes knock my hand accidentally against the table, you'll come over and ask me affectionately if i'm in pain, and plant a little kiss on where i'd injured myself, telling me "it's ok" :)

your ready smile and infectious laughter will always be a source of inspiration for me, and a reminder that the most important thing in life..... is happiness.

5 yrs ago i couldn't wait for you to grow up quickly so i could get my 8hrs of uninterrupted sleep through the nite. now, all i wanna do is freeze time because i just love the way u are!! you're going to prep next year and i'm pretty sure i'm going to cry on the 1st day of school and make a complete fool of myself in front of your little friends!

happy 5th birthday, my darling ethan. may you always be happy, healthy and all your wishes come true.

love always,

mommy