Fabulous Five.

It's unbelievable to me to think that I have a 5 year old. Five! He had a great birthday, made possible by a much-anticipated Transformer-themed birthday cake and his loving family surrounding him. I'm certain that when he went to bed that evening he felt loved and full of excitement about his new toys. A great day for him indeed.

Here's 5 things I love about Adam, in honor of this joyous day:

1. His attitude - both good and bad. I often hear other mom's say "my kid is so crabby today!" Adam may get (easily) annoyed/frustrated by me, Miles, even walking to the school bus when it's cold out (just wait buddy, just wait!), but he's quick to snap out of it. He wakes up bounding with energy and ready to start the day...and that energy continues to nap time (yes, he still naps!) and then right on up until bed time. His generally good-natured take on life is fun to watch.

2. His nurturing spirit. He is a kind soul, and really takes a leadership role with Miles at times, lovingly showing him "how to" do something or helping him with this and that. And then they quickly go back to fighting, but I digress.

3. He loves to laugh. He and Jeff had a wonderful time at Michigan's Adventure this summer. Guaranteed he was the only 4 year old to ride "Shivering Timbers" that day, so in these situations it pays to be tall. Jeff said that after the initial shock of the first run (and some tears!), he eagerly rode it several more times that day, laughing all the way.

4. He loves to read. I cannot wait for him to begin to read. I have a feeling he will love to read on his own as much as he loves being read to. Current favorite books are those in the Curious George series as well as longer stories such as the classic "Mike Mulligan and his Steam Shovel."

5. He loves his Daddy. When Jeff comes home, Adam lights up, and that makes my heart swell with pride. The two of them (well, the three of them, usually) quickly get to work of playing catch, chase, building legos as soon as dinner ends. I love the "before bed time scramble" that happens around here, as the freshness of Daddy being home from work often gives both the evening and the boys new energy and a happy vibe.

I'm looking forward to this next year, seeing how he grows and matures as a result of being in school every day. Happy Birthday, Buddy!