My dearest Owen,

Today you turn three. It’s been three years since I first saw your face and since then I have been trying my hardest not to blink. I blink and time flies and there you are growing up right in front of me. I will always say that motherhood is the sweetest pain I will ever know.

Owen, you have the most beautiful energy that has filled our home and life with such laughter. We often claim that you are our most “solid” kid and it will not surprise me if you do great things in sports, but beneath that typical boy exterior is the sweetest little soul I have ever known. Thank you for surprising us – it is such an honor to be your mother and I only hope to quietly follow behind you with a calm guidance as you navigate your way through life.

You may only be three, but your presence is well known in our house. Growing up, you will always be going toe to toe with your older brother and sister because that’s life with siblings, but always keep that sweet spirit. You have a way of brushing things off and forgiving and forgetting. It’s the same quality that your father has. Never lose it. Patience with others is a rare gift and you will inspire your family and others later in life with it.

Thank you for filling a piece of my heart. Always remember that your father and I love you to depths that you will not begin to understand until you are holding the hand of your own child. Happy Birthday, my sweet Owen.

With every piece of me,

Mom