my not-so-little nielsy bug, today you are 10 years old!!! 🎈i can’t believe it’s been a full decade since you were born. my heart was aching looking back at the last decade of memories with you. you’ve brought so much joy to life, and i feel so lucky to be your mom. 🥹🤧 you’ve always had the most tender, wise soul. sensitive to the world around you, and so protective and loving of your sisters and your friends. the most paternal little guy, always loving on babies and toddlers. and it’s been really cool this year, watching you gain so much self awareness and perspective sometimes during, or sometimes after, big feelings. i’m honestly blown away by how you’re learning to navigate and repair after overwhelm or frustration. it’s both inspiring and admirable. ❤️ you’ve got a big, busy brain, always talking a mile a minute. full of facts about videos games and animals and nature and star wars and comic books. not an ounce of fear of strangers or authority. our social butterfly - just happy to chat with anyone and everyone. 💫 historically, you’ve been quite risk adverse, so it’s been fun seeing your sense of adventure grow and thrive so much in the last year. you’ve been feeling brave and gaining confidence, and had the time of your life tagging along with your dad in all sorts of fun adventures. 🚗 you looove being outside, and are happiest when you’re skateboarding, fishing, snorkeling, surfing, throwing a football around, and just romping about with your buddies. 🎣 you still have the pickiest of palates, but a love for cooking. you’re always eager to assist your dad in the kitchen, even when you have zero interest in eating what you make. lol and you’re so sweet and thoughtful when it comes to beverages. always offering your family and houseguests tea or hot chocolate. ☕️ you are such a sweet and special boy, and while i ache for your fleeting babyhood, my heart is bursting with so much love and pride in watching you grow and develop your own identity. i’m excited for year 10. 🥳 #nielspieter #nielsonhisbday