Happy 6th Birthday Nolan!!

Dearest Nolan,

It seems like yesterday that I was running final errands on a Tuesday afternoon with your daddy preparing for your arrival. I was scheduled to be induced Wednesday morning, so I think that is what contributed in both of us ignoring the obvious signs that I was in labor. I constantly joke with you that you should get back in my belly for a little bit and cuddle. We didn't make it to Wednesday morning before went to the hospital . True to Nolan, you had your own agenda. I spent a long Tuesday night waiting for you, but ironically, you showed up around the same estimated time you would have if I would have been induced. Screaming, red, with bright red hair. I had prayed for a red head. I had prayed for a healthy baby. I had prayed for a child to call my own. And there you were. Though everyone tries so hard to explain, nothing could prepare me for motherhood. It was as if God scooped a bowl of love from my inside and handed it to me. I was forever and ever changed and I can't really remember now what life was like before you were in it. I don't want to. That's how awesome you are. Six years have rushed way too fast, but they have been so much fun. You are a pistol and you stop for nothing and no one. You are stubborn. You need to be heard. You are so smart. You are sensitive. You are unbelievably creative. You worship your daddy. You love your momma. You protect and guide your brothers. I try not to be sad that six years are behind you. Its so fun, how can I be sad? I'm so proud of you, little man. You are every dream come true that I could ever wish. I love you all the way to the moon (and back).

Love, Mommy

We woke you up with a surprise! You brought this as a treat to school for your birthday to hand out to other kids. Gloves and a packet of hot cocoa and marshmellows. Your class mates were very excited!! We finished off the day at Rainforest Cafe, where the staff sang you Happy Birthday with your dessert.