The other day Simeon and I were hanging out together and I said, “Simeon! Your birthday is on Sunday!” His little face exploded into a smile and he said, “It is?!” And then he shouted to everyone, “My burstday is on Sunday!” In that moment I realized just how adorably young this brand new four-year old is. We have been talking about his birthday all month as a family but he didn’t know it was so close. The concept of time is still developing in this tiny man and there’s something sweet about that. There are many things about this guy that I adore.

His speaking style is second to none in our family. We have talked about making a dictionary just for him because his pronunciation of some words is just so unique and he comes up with creative alternatives too. Here are a few:

• Youse = your
• Diarrhea = quesadilla
• Hurricane = candy cane
• Fouryee = four
• Shoryts = shorts

I’m sure one day he will outgrow his style of speaking but I hope it’s not too soon. It just fits him perfectly and I could listen to him talk all day.

His swagger is distinct. He walks with chest out and shoulders back as if to dare anyone to stand in his way. He is always ready to stand his ground, snuggle blanket faithfully by his side. He is a powder keg- a wrong look can result in an explosive outburst. He wastes no time in yelling, “I am so mad right now!” Perhaps being in the middle causes him to feel like he needs to make his presence felt and feelings heard in a way that is stronger than most.

But he is not all bristles. He melts into our arms just as easily as he takes on a fight. He has been known to walk around the house teary-eyed simply because he wants some extra cuddles from Mama or Poppa. The other day I was just sitting and watching him play with his cars and dragons and blocks. He was narrating the plot of his playtime to himself when all of a sudden he said, “I love you, Mom.” In that moment he taught me that he feels loved when I’m just there, focused on him- something almost effortless on my part.

And then there is his mischievous side. His eyes start dancing and a half smile (his dimpled side) appears and we just know a prank is percolating. Before too long, chaos erupts somewhere in the house and a blond head shows up looking as innocent as ever. I try to laugh most of the time but there are days when I do wish he was as innocent as he looks.

We could have stopped at two boys and two girls but I sure am glad that God blessed us with this little man in the middle. He keeps us laughing and cuddling and praying for patience, just what we need to be the parents he needs.