Blink of an Eye: Chase's Half-Birthday

Last week Wednesday, December 28, 2011, marked Chase's half-birthday. The big 5 and 1/2! Truth be told, I completely forgot it was his half-birthday (until after it had passed) and was still recuperating from Christmas and getting ready for New Year's on that day. I chide myself for that because I never want to forget any of my kids, and I am especially sensitive to how a middle child can be particularly prone to getting "lost in the mix." Chase has grown up so much over the last half year and shown tremendous maturity in adjusting to his new surroundings here in Hawaii. He enjoys kindergarten, is making new friends, and tries hard to read and write. He is always, as ever, creative and imaginative, and can occupy himself with a pad of paper and markers/crayons for hours on end. In some ways, he is all boy, Star Wars and shooting imaginary things, amongst his chief interests. He is also very sensitive, and can easily be moved to tears when listening to a sentimental/sad song or hearing a touching story. In many ways, he wants to be a big boy, independent and free from my maternal hovering, while at the same time, he still very much wants to be babied and will often come to me as "Baby Bird" calling out for "Mama Bird, Mama Bird."

Chase, I know first-hand it is not easy being in the middle. I know you try to keep up with Skyler, but she will always be older and at least for the time being, more advanced in many ways. I know it is hard for you to see the attention that Evan gets simply by being the youngest. I know. I know that you, more than anyone, with your lovable nature, inquisitive intelligence, and winning smile was aptly placed to take on the challenging role of middle child. I've got your back, Baby Bird. Happy Half-Birthday, Chasey-Boy!