4 amazing years

Dear Henry,
Today you are 4 years old. I simply can't believe how fast you are growing up. I have to say that the last few months with you have been quite nice. You are becoming such a balanced, thoughtful person. You are social and aware and goofy and fun. You are strong and coordinated and creative. Things are so much easier now that you are getting a handle on what you can control and what you can't. I'm not even sure that's really what's happening but the outcome is the same. You are more patient, and less frustrated and able to wait for good things to come. I could record at least one funny/amazing/adorable/crazy thing you say every day. We had your birthday party yesterday and I enjoyed seeing you among your friends (mostly from school). You were a good host and grateful and funny. These are things I would like to think you have learned from us but i am also very careful not to tell you what to say and do as much as I can. You have a lot of freedom for a newly 4 year old boy and I am so appreciative of how trustworthy you are and that we can let you negotiate your way in this world, quietly (well, as quietly as we can) standing by to support you and love you and kiss you many bumps and bruises, while giving you the space to become the amazing, strong, confident person that you are. Happy birthday, big boy.