Happy Birthday, Baby!

Happy Birthday, my little William.  I know you're now 18, an adult.  You're a foot taller than me ... far from little.  But in my heart, you will always be the little man that sat at my feet silently taking in everything and everyone around you.

Today, you are the same.  More quiet and thoughtful than anyone I know.   Your tender heart melts mine and your witty sense of humor makes me laugh each and every day.  I know this sounds sappy, but I've truly never met a person that exudes the peace and calm that you do.  From the moment you were born, spending two minutes with you melted away all the stresses of the world.

I really never thought today would arrive.  I really thought you'd stay little forever (seriously, I wished it more times than you'll every know).  But today, sitting across from you at dinner, I realized how much of an adult you are...how ready you are to face the world.  We're both so proud of you!

So after kissing you goodnight (thanks for letting me!), I sit here in tears.  Not because you've reached adulthood, but because I'm so lucky to have been with you every step of the way.  I love you bunches, little one.  Happy Birthday.