Dear William (74 months)

Dear William,
Today you are 74 months old.

You spent a lot of time in your Batman costume this month, whether you were brushing your teeth, or cheering your father on to a 2:48 road marathon.

You got your school picture taken.  Unfortunately, some kid knocked you over at recess the day before, and it left a small mark on your face.  Doesn't matter.  You are still lovely, no matter what.

You look like a teenager.

You continued to play soccer.

Your father's stunning action shots make it look more glamorous than it really is.

We took a very long drive to view some foliage.  You helped us map the route.

The day was worth it, because you got a Native Foods Cafe cupcake.

This is your favorite way to eat a cupcake.

Then you cheered mommy on, for a very long way.

I haven't been able to run much since my very long race, so you and I have been using our extra time to do some baking.

Pita bread.

English muffin vegan mini pizzas.

You had a school fundraiser where all the kids were supposed to run a certain number of laps around the school.  The goal for the first graders was 6 laps.

I went to watch the event.  On your first pass through, you were solidly in the middle of the pack.  Your eyes lit up when you saw me.  I asked if you wanted me to run with you, and you looked nervous and said, "I don't think you're supposed to do that."

It was a long time before you came around for the second time.  By then, I saw a couple of other parents jogging with their kids.  So I joined you.  You were struggling, but it helped to run together.  We held hands for a while.  I stayed with you from laps 2 through 6.  We slowed a lot and took a lot of walk breaks.  When you finished your 6th lap, there was only 6 minutes left on the clock.  You said, "I want to do another lap."  I couldn't believe it.  You had been struggling and complaining and telling me you wanted to stop the entire time.

"Okay," I said.  "But if you want to do this, we have to keep moving."  None of your laps had been under 6 minutes so far.

So we kept moving.  When we were close to the end, I told you give it all you've got, and I cut across the field so I could see you cross the finish line.

You did it.  With what must have been seconds to spare.  7 laps, one more than your goal.  That was at least 2 miles, and your last lap was your fastest one.  I was so, so proud of you.  I still am.  I always will be.

You inspire me to do my best and to see the world with wonder.

Love always,
Mama