Four.

Schafer,

Four years ago I welcomed the best surprise of my life into my arms. You were a little stubborn in how you entered the world, but when I got to hold you for the first time and look into your eyes I knew you were someone extra special and that I would love you fiercely and with awe and forever. Your eyes were squinty and trying to gain focus in the bright operating room, but you settled as soon as you were in my arms. If someone had told me then that I would be even more amazed by you now than I was in that moment, I wouldn't have believed them.

But you honestly almost bowl me over every day with how awesome you are.

Even though you are still oh so stubborn you are always kind-hearted and hilarious and sweet. I love the way you think about things scientifically (definitely got that from your dad) and the way you love your little brother. I love the way you come into our bedroom in the mornings and wake us with a big smile and an exclamation of, "It's daytime!" I love the way you bargain so determinedly to get the things you want. ("But Mom, I asked NICEWHEE!!!") I love how you are so friendly and outgoing to everyone you meet, and can carry on a conversation like a little adult. I love that you randomly say to me, "Hey mom? I fink you're cute!" I love how you like to "define" words. ("*Kind of* means when you're puzzled and you don't know sumfin for sure." or "Why is Andy starin' at me? *Starin'* is when you look at someone and your face goes still.") I could go on forever and ever at all the things I love about you. I am SO SO proud and humbled to be your mom. You are worth every sleepless night, spilled milk, super temper tantrum, potty training accident, and beyond. Thank you for making me a mommy. Thank you for being such a bright ray of sunshine in so many people's lives. You are loved to bits and pieces and I hope you have the happiest of all the happy 4th birthdays!!!