Oh, September!

It has been quite a month. Really. I'm exhausted just thinking about all that has happened, good and not-so-good here at Lostview over the past four weeks. It is the fullest time of year, in my opinion, with the gardens busting forth with fruits, the days warm and evenings cool, projects in full swing, visitors by the car load, and the kitchen always buzzing. It's so rich and lovely...and yet I always look forward to the new air of October.

But perhaps my favorite part of September is our annual birthday bash for the boys with my family. Mom and dad come in from Minneapolis and we play all day before gorging ourselves on tasty food, topped off with presents and a cake creation, a la Gaga. My mom has made amazing birthday cakes for as long as I can remember and it tickles me pink to know that she continues her cake art tradition with our kids.
I love that Ellis and Owain share birthdays just close enough to warrant a shared celebration (one of many birthday celebrations for these anything but deprived boys...I think over the course of September, Ellis had the pleasure of enjoying birthday cake, birthday cupcakes, birthday ice cream and birthday caramel apples).

My first born is four years old. This past year, really, this past summer, Ellis grew up. He gained about 4 inches and a few pounds, building on his tall, slender stature. He became more introspective and thoughtful, at times alarming me with his serious, intuitive nature. Ellis feels deeply and thinks intently. He is still learning to share those intense feelings, but when he does, it is poignant and I am so proud of him. He is intentional and careful, fiery and fun. I relish the moments I still get to read with Ellis in my lap looking on, knowing they will be fewer as he gets too big to fit in the chair with me any longer.

This past year, Ellis learned to swim and hold his breath underwater. He began to write his letters and sound out words. He climbs like a monkey, digs alongside his dad in the garden, and is a trustworthy, hardworking helper. He went from diapers to tiny tighty-whiteys, got rid of his nuk and "shirt", and outgrew all his clothes. This year, Ellis became an older brother. It has been a year of change and profound growth for my sweet Ellis. He is a big boy, and I love him more deeply every day. Happy birthday, my four year old. Here's to another September gone by.