Six

Dear Cooper,

A couple of days ago, you turned six. It's crazy to me that our hearts have known you all of those years, but at the same time, it feels way too short a time to have nurtured the love we feel for you.

Your beginnings were rough and for years, you refused to be touched by groomers or vets or pretty much anyone. But with us, you were always a cuddle bug. I never need to wonder where you are because you are always at my feet. You get so excited to see me after a day at work that you literally struggle to breathe until I scoop you up and calm you down. At night, you alternate between curling into me and snuggling alongside your dad. Jack remains your best friend and you live for moments of play and chase and tug-of-war.

It's been a rough six months for you adjusting to your new baby sister, but you've mostly been a trooper waiting patiently for our attention. Attention that once (not so long ago) belonged solely to you (and to Jack). These days you are likely to escape to a different room and relax until the baby goes down for a nap, even if you're in there alone. And sometimes, you just seem sad, and it really shatters my heart. Rowan adores you and I know that in time, you will work out a great relationship and will be fast friends.

But in the interim, just now when your world must feel entirely off kilter, when everything you knew to be true has shifted, know that our adoration for you and your spot in our family remain essential, permanent, strong. I hope you felt that during our little celebration the other night. I think you did.

Our hands and laps may not be empty as often these days and your sister might continue to loudly screech at you with joy, but you remain one of our brightest sources of joy. And in our hearts, there is always room. A Cooper sized spot that will never waver.

We adore you, sweet boy. Happy six years. Happy, many, many more.

Love,
Mama, Daddy, Jack and Rowan

Comments

[Lee Ann Brock]

Happy Happy Birthday sweet Coop Coop
Nana loves you !