Roanin.

Let me tell you a few things I love about this kid.

I love how he adores animals.  He has such a way with them...so compassionate and gentle.  Watching animals naturally respond to him makes  me such a proud momma, and makes Shawn beam with pride as well.  Although Shawn was this way as a child, and both Shawn and I are animal lovers...this is something that just comes naturally to Roanin.  We have not drilled him about how to act with animals...he just knows.

I love how he is a rule follower by nature, but has been testing the waters as of late.  He has a need to do what is right, and to not disappoint people...but the last month or so has brought the tiniest glimpse of rebellion that makes me crazy and delighted all in the same breath.  I know I will always have my sweet little good boy, but I love that he is figuring out his own personality and testing a few things out.

I love how Roanin is so protective of his baby brother.  Although he has no problem pounding on Rex for the slightest indiscretion, if any other child even looks at Rex crossly, Roanin is immediately at his defense no matter the situation.  Seeing his devout loyalty to his best friend is heart melting for a mother. 

I love how Roanin eats.  In his entire life, Roanin has told me that he does not like something maybe five times.  And even if he knows he doesn't like something, he will almost always give it a go just to see if he has changed his mind.  At least once a week, Roanin will randomly exclaim to me at dinner that I am the best cook in the entire world (which I assure you, I am not).  He will always clean his plate, but his favorites include pistachios, pickles, and potato salad. 

I love how he already has such a good sense of character.  His reports of who he plays with at school include kids that are truly good kids, although he "tries to be nice even to bad friends".  He is a good, loyal friend and loves unconditionally.

I love that he needs to work hard.  Give him a job, and he will work tirelessly until it is finished.  Digging, cleaning up, shoveling, making gifts...he sees things through.

I love the fire in his spirit.  The intensity that brings rage to the surface also cultivates such strong love, laughter and compassion.  I hope this stays with him and that he learns to use it the way it will serve him best. 

I love the way he has made the last four years the best of all my thirty five.  He has made each day a challenging adventure.  He has caused me to cry harder, laugh louder and love more fiercely that I ever imagined.  I cannot even consider a life without this little man.   I look forward to seeing him grow into the individual he is destined to become.  I count my lucky stars I get to be on the short list of spectators. 

Happy Birthday, Roanin Luke Dunsmore.