He started out stubborn, refusing to turn from his breech position so I could be induced before he had a chance to flip back. The doctor wouldn't cancel any appointements that day, since it wasn't medically necessary that I have the baby that day, but had an opening for surgery within the half hour. I was prepped and ready in twenty minutes. Sometimes he's a challenge and sometimes he's a joy. Everyone comments on his sense of humor, his flair for sarcasm and puns. He's growing up before my eyes, and settling down in ways I only dreamed of a few years ago. It's not all smooth sailing, and he will be facing some social/emotional challenge for all of his life. But today we celebrate what a marvel he is.

He's the picture of a typical fourth grader, with his track pants and his hoodie and his Phineas and Ferb hightops.  But Hoss is anything but typical. Happy birthday, dude. To borrow one of your own phrases, "If I loved you any less, I'd still love you the same."