Living the Good Life: June 3, 2012 = 4

Nicholas is four. Even as I'm writing it now, a few days after his birthday, I still cannot believe it. I openly admit that this one has been really hard for me. There's just something about this age that makes me realize he's really growing up. Four seems like the true gateway to boyhood, the point where the baby is left behind and the need for mommy and daddy gradually becomes less and less. Maybe I'm overreacting, but that's just me. I'll never forget the night of his birthday as I tucked him in for bed. I was cuddling with him and we were talking about how special he is and how much I love him when I got a little emotional and may have shed a couple of tears. He looks up at me and ever so sweetly says "Don't worry, I'm still little". I could have died right then and there. But, I'm trying hard to stay focused on the positives and all of the wonderful things about a four year old. About a week ago, as his birthday was fast approaching, I sat back and started listing in my mind the every day things he says and does that completely melt my heart. I thought this would be the proper time to write them down so I never, ever forget our boy just as he was at 1,460 unforgettable days old.
-Some nights, he'll sneak out of bed, crawl past Greg in the living room so his escape won't be detected, and quietly comes in our bedroom for one more hug and kiss good-night from Mama.
-When he was a baby he reminded me of Sweet Pea in the Popeye movie so that became one of my favorite nicknames for him. To this day, if anyone tries to call him a different nickname he demands they call him Sweet Pea, even to the point of defensive anger.
-As I've mentioned before, he's making friends on his own now. Wherever we go, he tries to make friends with other kids and calls everyone "Buddy". Sometimes they turn him down but he never stops trying.
-He loves to listen to music. In the car, in Daddy's office, wherever. And he likes it LOUD. And if it isn't loud enough, he'll ask you to turn it up again and again until you do.
-He absolutely loves getting haircuts. Going to Snip-Its is a form of entertainment for him and I thank my lucky stars that he's never been the screamer.
-He has a wicked sense of humor and he can make me laugh probably more than anyone else on the planet. Sometimes appropriate, sometimes not so much. Such is life with a boy - lots of jokes about toots and poo-poo.
-He may be a rough and tumble type of guy who rarely fears anything, including punishment, but he also has a very sensitive side. He readily shows affection and loves to cuddle and he never skimps on the I love yous. I hope that never changes.

Okay, there are at least a million more I could write about and this could go on and on forever, but I'll leave it at that. Instead, let's get on with it and see some pictures.