You've waited for this day, Henry

Henderson Reid,
My sweet little guy. You waited and waited for the day you would turn three. You were so ready to be big and to be the star of the show. Your third birthday was spent in the car driving home from Colorado so we celebrated a week later. On that day you soaked up all the attention and proudly enjoyed being doted over for the day. Since that day you have told anyone who would listen, "I had a birthday and now I am three!" You know what, Henry? It was an absolute pleasure to take time out to celebrate you, because you are worth celebrating.
This year you really blossomed into your own little person. At 2.5 you potty trained yourself as you decided you were ready to take that next step as a big boy. You took swimming lessons with Trace and showed such bravery in the water. You got in on the action in any game or activity where size was not a restriction. You are brave and strong and confident but you know your limitations. Sometimes you show a little fear and are quick to ask for help when you need it. It has been so fun to see you show who you are whenever given the opportunity in new activities.

You are also one of the most kind little people I have ever known. I will never forget picking you up from school one day and listening to your teachers brag about you helping a little friend who was sad. You are always concerned when you see a friend hurt or sad. You love babies. You are quick to makes friends. You give the best hugs and kisses and give mommy and daddy so much love. Your kindness does not go unnoticed and I am sure it will be something that takes you far in life.

Henry, I sometimes worry about you as you face challenges with your food allergy and sensitive skin. When you had your anaphylactic reaction to peanuts this winter you were such an incredibly brave little guy. I tear up even today thinking about how scary it was and how strong you were. You are quick to advocate for yourself and express when something hurts and bothers you, but boy does it break my heart that you have to deal with this at all. I hope that someday you will be free from the frustrations and fear of food allergies and other health issues.

Henry, above all you are your own person and I appreciate that so much about you. Sometimes I get frustrated because I don't always know how to parent you with your confidence and strong will, however, I know that these are such great qualities. I cannot wait to see what you will do in life. You are so special and I am already so proud of who you are becoming.

Happy (Belated) Birthday my dear Henry! Thank you for letting me be your mama and teaching me more and more each and every day!
I love you.

Mom