Four years ago.

This time four years ago, I was pacing around my mom's house, willing my very early labour to progress quickly. I wanted to have my baby before Christmas so I could get home in time for the festivities. I paced around Mom's until 8:30 in the evening, when my contractions started getting harder and closer together. Once I got to the hospital, they told me it was still very early and to go for a walk. I remember having a tea at Tim Horton's and then pacing up and down the hallway at the little mall on the bottom floor of the hospital. I remember sitting in the hospital lobby on an uncomfortable chair, crying on Lucas' shoulder because I felt so scared all of a sudden and the pains were getting more intense. When I couldn't stand it anymore we headed back and less than four hours later, at 2:48 in the morning, on December 22, my precious boy was born. I was so thrilled that my 19 month old son now had a baby brother to play with. I remember that he cried for two hours straight after he was born, while his daddy rocked him and sang to him. Then suddenly he found his little finger, started sucking and fell asleep. He was so cute and I loved him so much.

Fast forward four years and I now have a baby-turned-boy who I still love so very much. He is such a sweet boy and adds such a calmness to our family. He is right in the middle of two very loud and dramatic children, and sometimes I worry that he will get forgotten. He is quieter than the other two, but still stubborn as a mule when he wants to be. He is soft-hearted and gentle, kind and loving. He is my one child who is most likely to want a cuddle. He is the one who, after being separated from me for a few hours, will come running and throw his little arms around me. He loves to tease and loves reading funny books. He loves making up funny words and gave nicknames to both his siblings since he could talk. He loves his family and feels shy around strangers. He has a gorgeous smile and I love him more than words can say. I can't believe he is four tomorrow. Love you, Jacob! And happy birthday from Mommy.