Matthew, while playing. (And, no, he doesn’t care that it’s summer.) 🙂

Today, our sweet Matthew Ron is turning five years old! In honor of his big day, I thought I’d share a few things about our youngest child.

M anly – He’s all boy! He loves to pretend to fight with swords, guns or even fists. Sometimes, he gets a little too rough. He likes hanging out with his dad, sweating and getting dirty.

A nimated –  Most of the time, we can tell what he’s thinking by his facial expression. He’s not good at hiding his emotions.

T ruthful  – Like most five-year-olds, if you ask Matt his opinion, he’ll give it to you, good or bad!

T ender-hearted – Matthew is rough and tough, but he also loves to cuddle up with me and read a book or tell me one of his stories at bedtime. We recently read the book, The Giving Tree. It’s a very touching story, but I thought the theme would be over Matt’s head. I was wrong! He got tears in his eyes over that book. I’m glad he is already feeling compassion, even if it’s just over a fictional tree.

H andsome – Of course, I *am* his mother. 😉

E nergetic – He’s a bundle of exciting, unending ideas and activities. He is keeping me young.

W illing – Matthew is happy to help you with any job, any time. A few months ago, I asked him to go put something away for me. His reply was, “I’m on it, cutie pie!” Just last night I asked him to put away some dishes for me. He said, “Okay, beautiful Mom!” I know he’ll grow out of using the terms of endearment, so I’m soaking it up while I can.

I am so grateful for my Matthew Ron. I was delighted to have another boy so I could name him after my dad, Ron Courtney. I pray that Matthew, and each of our children, come to know the Savior that their Papa knows face to face.

Happy birthday, Matthew!

With love,