The Other Side of Five

Dear Sammy,

This first month of 5 sure has been full of, well, everything. Everything but calm and quiet that is.

You – officially, in my book – started school, going away to learn many, many things for 5 hours a day. It’s only been a few weeks, but already you come home and spout of all kinds of things, from nursery rhymes to songs to spellings and much more. And that’s from a kid who isn’t so much chatty Charlie, so I know that’s just the tip of the educational iceberg. I can’t wait to hear what you’ll show us next. (My favorite thus far: your new devotion to the concept of following directions. Score for Mommy!)

I am absolutely tickled at your excitement to go to school each day, and your disappointment when the weekend rolls around. You probably won’t always feel that way, but I promise I’ll be reminding you of these days (especially when you’re a teenager). I hope you can remember the feeling a little bit. It might help you get through algebra.

Unfortunately, you’ve also experienced your first x-ray. We’re waiting to hear if you broke your arm when you feel off the swing at the park. I have to say that you amaze me because it doesn’t seem to phase you that much. A couple of mentions that you hurt your arm, and that’s all you’ve had to say about it. But you’ve been using your other arm to do just about everything, and you can’t straighten the bum one out completely, so we know you did a number on it. So now we wait to see if you get to wear a cast for a few weeks. You get a sling at the very least thought, and I’m sure the kids will think it’s cool. I’m so sorry you’re going through this so soon, and for something you’ve done hundreds of times before. Your memory of this time will probably be of all the treats and prizes you get for your bravery. I’m sure Grandpa is planning the first visit to McDonalds as I type.

Despite the ups and downs of the past months, it just keeps getting more fun to be your mom. You interact so much more with your sister, both in annoyance and affection. You can turn on a dime from being totally irritated with her for stealing a toy to declaring your undying love and chasing her across the room to give her a hug. It’s the beginning of a beautiful friendship.

One thing hasn’t changed, and that’s how cuddly you are when you wake up. You always, always come up with a big grin, ask for a kid, and tell me, very dramatically, that you llllloooooovvvvveeeeee me. It’s the best part of my day. Please keep that.

Love,

Mom

Update: NOT BROKEN. I repeat - NOT BROKEN!!! It's a small distinction, and you still have to wear a sling (which I'm sure is garnering lots of attention in school), but I'm celebrating. The next month might not have as much park and bicycle as you would like, but at least you won't have to take a bath with your arm in a plastic baggie. Congrats, Kid.