Her Dreams

When our daughter was 2 1/2, she wanted to be a pig farmer. She was a pig for Halloween for 3 years straight. As expected, that dream went by the wayside in favor of wanting to be a librarian, although her love of pigs has remained. We were at the fair again on Sunday, walking through the cattle barns, and she told me this:

"Mom, do you want to know the plan for my life?"
"Yes, honey, please share."
"I am going to be a farmer."
"OK, what animals will you have?"
"Well... pigs, of course. And cows that I will milk by hand."
"Sounds like a lot of work. Anything else?"
"Goats. What else should I have?"
"Sheep?"
"Yes, sheep. Then I can knit their wool."
"What about being a librarian?"
"Farmers like me like to read. I will finish my work early then go read books. I will have a lot of books that my neighbors can come borrow."
"Make sure you write your name in your books."
"OK."

I guess this means more trips to North Dakota are in store. Sigh.

To My Son on his First Birthday

I love you, my little man. There are so many things I love about you, but here are a few:

1. Sometimes, in the back seat, you'll be completely quiet until a funny thought comes across your mind, and you laugh.

2. You have the most expressive face I've ever seen. Your eyebrows speak volumes.

3. You have the sweetest disposition. You are content and satisfied.

4. Your sister and you have a very special bond. Maybe it's because she prayed for your existence, but you look at her differently than you look at everyone else.

5. You are a manly man! You thump your chest and grunt, and then look very pleased with yourself.

6. You give the BEST baby kissies in the world! Now when I ask for them you are starting to respond. They used to be happy surprises, but now, with increased understanding, you know what giving kissies means.

7. At bedtime, after the bath, book, and bottle, you lay your head on my shoulder...but only for a moment! After a couple of seconds you perk up to look me straight in the face and grin as if you've told the best joke ever! Then you lay back on my shoulder... until pop! The grin! Back and forth, back and forth, until you start lunging for your crib.

8. I love that you are a great sleeper.

9. After all the health crapola you have gone through, you are resilient. The meanings of your names suit you so well: "rock," and "son of my right hand." Your other name, "supplanter," fits in that your life has supplanted the fear in my heart with joy.

10. I love your husky voice.

I could go on and on, of course, because I am over the moon for you. You're the best surprise I've ever received, evidence of pure grace. Thank you, my sweet baby boy. I love you. Happy First Birthday.