To my beautiful boy,

Somehow we have arrived at your 5th birthday – 5th! My goodness, how did you get to be 5-years-old so soon?

That night we met, the inky darkness outside was wrapped in an icy wind and the August rains lashed the windows of our hospital room. It was as surreal as it was scary, meeting you in the way we did. But 5 years on I finally reflect on it with less of a shudder and more of a smile. Because as traumatic as it was, it was when I first got to look into the eyes of the squalling little bundle of baby and join a very special club – I was officially a Mummy. And I was so proud that the angels selected me to be the one (along with Daddy!) to guide you into the world.

There is still so much to marvel at when I look at you all these years on from that chilly August night – those cornflower blue eyes, framed by your lush, long lashes (watch the girls one day swoon over them, I am warning you!) that cheeky grin, or your brain that never stops whirring. And then there are your legacies from Mummy (sorry!) – you are a sensitive soul, with an elephant head memory. There doesn’t appear to be much that you seem to have forgotten along the way on this journey. Just be glad you get your coordination and love of sports from Daddy and not me!

I’m so proud of the boy you have blossomed into, and especially chuffed at witnessing how well you have adjusted to life as a big brother. You have an adoration for your little sister that is pure and absolute. Let’s just hope it lasts long after she is on the move and suddenly able to manoeuvre about and snatch your toys…

Happy 5th birthday my Master H, what a privilege it is to have been along for this ride with you. I’ve never been more tired, but I’ve also never been more fulfilled. Let’s hope the year ahead brings with it even more amazing memories – and a little bit more sleep, if you dont mind?

Loving you to the moon and back,

Your Mummy