(almost) five.



Periodically, I like to stop and pause and remember my kids just as they are, at that exact time.  My babiest boy is changing so much, and I'm feeling those familiar growth pains that come with motherhood.  He is just that...my last baby.  I am lucky to have a son, and I am blessed to have Carter as a son.

Carter Taylor at (almost) five years old.....

I used to always call you my "laid back lovey," partly because I stole the description from your auntie momo because it just fit you so perfectly, and for many many many months, you were just that, very laid back, go with the flow, loves to snuggle little boy.  I joke that this was a welcome change from your horrific infancy, but it's not really a joke at all.  I've loved you every day of your almost five years, but those first six months I would pay A LOT of money not to relive.  Recently, though, I've realized that there is a whole lot more going on in that head of yours then you always let on...  You, my sweet boy, are full of so much personality and character and love.  You are, genuinely, a good good boy. 



You are such a silly boy, you love to laugh.  You love to make your sister and your momma laugh.  I can see the little jokester in you that I'm told was a big part of me :)  You are also, though, very serious.  Sometimes, it's a little annoying, I won't lie, and maybe later in life you will laugh at how dramatic you were over hangnails, but right now none of us are laughing. 

You are so inquisitive....so eager to learn.  When you ask a question, you expect a real answer.  Not a pat "almost five year old" answer...the REAL DEAL.  Sometimes, this makes mommy's life very hard, as I tread lightly around too much information, but I love how much you want to know, and how it all needs to make sense in your little head. 

You absolutely adore your sister.  I will never fully understand how pure your love really is, but your concern and doting over her is adorable.  You are such a sweet boy, always looking after Katie, and even when I'm not looking, bubby, I know that you're giving her the first turn on 'puter games and the Wii.  You're such a good brother.  She will always be the luckiest to have you.

  And you, my sweet boy...you are still my momma's boy.  You love our afternoons together when you get out of school.  Sometimes we have snacks and watch your favorite cartoon, sometimes we play nerf guns, sometimes we play outside...and I treasure this time with you.  Just because I've already sent one child to kindy doesn't mean it is going to be ANY easier to send you off in that great big world.  And right now you are still so happy to snuggle with your momma.  And that makes this momma very very happy.

I wouldn't change a think about you, my amazing little boy.  I love the way you want to know how everything works, why things happen, how problems will be solved.  Your future is so bright.  And when you want to snuggle, I will always be here, with open arms.

I love you baby boy.