Dear Ivan:

Today you turned 6!  Amazing.  I remember when you were just born and when you fit comfortably in the crook of my arm.  I remember the crying, the pooping, the diapers.

Thank goodness you’re 6.

In truth, I’m excited you’re 6, though it’s bittersweet at the same time.  With the passage of time, I note that you’re getting older and growing away from me, even as I grow older and toward my own mortality.

But, forget that, let’s live in the moment!

For now, I can still tickle you till you can’t breathe and laugh out loud when you run the length of apartment, yell butt-face, and hit me in the throat.  Indeed, so long as you use the word “butt” in your remarks, I know you will keep me in stitches.

So, yes, I am nostalgic for when you were younger and everything lay ahead.  But, I am so grateful and excited about your growth and the way you continue to evolve into an individual, separate and apart.

Most of all, though, I am grateful that you are happy, healthy and my son.  That is the best gift of all.

Love always,

Daddy