Suddenly I have a child, and not even a little kid, a full size, proper child. And whilst I can’t believe you are seven years old already it equally feels like you have been around for a large amount of my life.
As usual we have marked the passing of another year of your life with much fuss and fanfare. This year it has all been very Doctor Who themed with your party, presents and so on all featuring The Doctor and his sidekicks. When you were six it was Wallace and Gromit, at five it was Spiderman, at four Peter Pan and at three Buzz Lightyear.
I sat with you tonight telling you how I’d gazed at your seven years ago, putting my fingers into your tiny grasping hands, stroking your soft cheeks, nuzzling your nose, kissing your toes and marvelling at the wisdom and understanding already reflected in your eyes. Today I have gazed at you anew, held your hand, stroked your cheek and marvelled at what an amazing person you’ve become in those seven years.
Today you shared opening your presents and licking the candles you pulled out of your cake with your sister. She didn’t ask, no one expected it, it was just what you did automatically.
Today you showed real delight in every present you opened, explored it fully, wanted to know who had given it to you and remarked on their kindness and how they’d chosen so well and then were delighted anew ready for the next gift.
Today you listened to me explaining how Daddy and Granny had taken the day off work to spend time with you on your birthday and whilst all you really wanted to do was stay home and play with your new toys you humoured us all and ‘allowed’ us to take you out to lunch and the park.
Today I was told by two seperate people what a lovely boy you are, how happy, clever, confident, kind and special. And neither of them were saying it because it’s your birthday. It’s because it’s true.
Today you found a quiet moment to slip your hand in mine and thank me, without prompting but because you truly wanted to articulate your gratitude, for all the birthday stuff I’ve done for you; from party preparation to the three birthday cakes, to your presents and finally, by the time we were both giggling, for giving birth to you in the first place. I told you it had all been a pleasure. And I think that sums up your life so far really Davies. It’s been a pleasure.
Happy Seventh Birthday Darling. xxxxx
