the birthday boy

• Happy birthday baby boy!

• Your birthday sunrise was nothing short of spectacular. You were born at a lovely time of year.

• Your day started with presents. You got to decide whether you opened them in the morning or at dinner. I wasn’t surprised you chose the morning. Lila got you Hot Wheels, Katie got you a roll of nickels (you couldn’t believe how much money was in there!), Jane got you a shirt, daddy got you an Adidas track suit, and I got you new Marvel guys. You were so appreciative and grateful for every single gift you received. It was quite sweet.

• For breakfast you wanted boiled eggs and toast. You and I were were totally into that. The rest of them…not so much. But they ate it to be polite.

• I always deliver a special birthday treat to school for birthdays. You chose bananas and those little Chinese jellies. Your teacher was impressed with your choice. I was baffled.

• For dinner you chose butter chicken, and I also made roasted cauliflower and naan to accompany it. You really really love butter chicken. It was such an unusual request for a five year old, but everyone was delighted you picked it.

• Auntie Georgia and Uncle Ben joined us for dinner. They heard about your skateboard fund, so Auntie Georgia made a piggy bank for you (which you call your bank account) and put a few dollars of coins inside. You added the coins Katie had given you, then daddy donated some of his change as well. You can’t believe how rich you are. You can’t wait to be able to buy your skateboard.

• You requested chocolate cake, so I made our family favorite. A rich, moist amazing chocolatey cake that is to die for. I substitute the Kahlua with strong coffee. You and Lila decorated the cake after school with chocolate icing and two different kinds of sprinkles in the shape of a heart. It was very cute, and I can’t believe I didn’t get a photo of it.

• George, as I tucked you in, you told me today was the best day of your life. I’m so glad you felt special and loved and celebrated on your birthday. You’re a pretty great little guy. I love you baby boy!