Emotions with Birthdays

Growing up I never realized you could have emotions about birthdays. There was always the excitement of a new milestone, and getting another year closer to the next one. It seemed simple, who could be sad about an upcoming birthday?
 
The weeks leading up to my son’s birthday are always a whirlwind of emotions. It’s exciting to see him reach new milestones. As well as reflecting on the growth he’s had in the past year. On the same token though, it’s heartbreaking that he's another year older. Next week Michael will be 4! That feels so surreal!

The last few weeks have emphasized the milestones Michael will have this year. From starting Pre-K in August, officially being a pre-schooler and no longer a toddler, and being big enough to start sports in the fall. It's bittersweet to see him start a new phase of his childhood.
 
I often tell myself and others that each year truly is better the older Michael gets. Each year he understands more, we’re able to do more, and we’re able to see more of his personality. As sad as it is to see the end of one year, it is exciting to see what is in store for next.
 
As I reflect on this past year for Michael I am amazed at the kind, smart, and loving little boy he is becoming. This year was a big year for Michael. He started his first year of school doing a half-day Pre-K3 program at a local elementary school. Despite my hesitation for him starting this program, he thrived. Michael not only improved drastically in his speech, he learned more than we could have imagined academically this year. We saw often how he always set a good example for his peers and would lend a helping hand to his teacher and friends.
 
Michael also had the chance this year to try out two sports camps. Despite his hesitation and frustrations during the process, it was so rewarding to see how proud he was of himself once each day was finished. Michael continues to push himself to try new things and I’m so proud of the heart he puts into doing his best.
 
This year, I’m so excited we’re able to ring in both Alex and Michael’s birthday at Disneyland! With our countdown officially on, I find myself feeling happy to celebrate. Knowing we will have 2 days of magic and a beach day to start our trip, I can’t wait to celebrate with my family!
 
As we near the end of this year for Michael and approach a new one. I find myself focusing on the word grateful.
I have so much in life to be grateful for. Most importantly I am grateful to have the most amazing husband and the most amazing little boy in my life.
 
While there will always be the initial sadness of birthdays for Michael, I’m choosing to focus on the beauty of this upcoming year for him.
If you’ve read this far, thank you! I can’t wait to share about our trip in a few weeks!