What an occasion! Today is Beau’s golden birthday and with it comes the freedom to finally hold up all digits on his hand to express his age. Perhaps with both of these things going for him, I was looking for something more profound when I asked him about the day’s significance. But when I asked my son what excited him the most about turning 5, he responded by yelling one word: “CAKE!”

Beau turns 5 today. Oh, how I love this little boy! (photo courtesy of Nicole Lynn Photos).

I guess I shouldn’t be surprised. Beau is a simple little guy who is easy to please and easy to love. And thank goodness for that, because his older sister brings enough sophistication to our family for everyone. But forgive me, Sloan will have her moment next month, so let me focus on Beau.

Beau’s official Pre-K4 school photo.

Like I was saying, Beau is so easy to love. He is sweet, helpful, and sensitive. I know I sound like a prideful parent, but our birthday boy truly is special. Although most people refer to him as “Beau Bear,” I have always called him “little man” since birth. However, I could get away with also calling him my “little buddy” because that is exactly what he is to me. Always there to assist me, sit with me, ride with me, and do whatever he can to impress me, Beau’s love is so genuine and pure.

This little guy has quite the personality

It was such a joy to be around him as a 4-year-old. Even when Beau went through a two-month period where listening dwindled and boundaries were tested, he would always return to his sweet self at the end of the day and want to cuddle with us. Over the past year he played t-ball, attended many birthday parties, dressed up as Spider-Man a million times, managed to stay out of the emergency room (), and became a skilled Lego-builder.

Throughout his time as a 4-year-old, Beau was often dressed (to some degree) as Spider-Man.

As he begins his next chapter as a 5-year-old, we are buckling up. Beau will travel to some amazing places, play sports, start Kindergarten, ask more questions about Jesus, dance his heart out, and much more. I am certain he will do this all with his optimistic and loving spirit.

Beau sitting at his desk ready to start his first day of Pre-K4.

If you know our son, he loves to extend his arms and flash double “thumbs up” to express his approval. Trust us, Beau’s thumbs are waaaaay up for turning 5. Although my thumbs don’t know exactly which direction to go with my little man turning another year old, you better believe my love for him continues to be sky high. Don’t Blink.