It’s no secret, I’ve always wanted to raise boys. I’ve never dreamed about raising little girls wearing tutus and tiaras like all the other women in my life. I used to be a tomboy, a tough little girl, and quite frankly I’m happy day in and day out that I am a boymom.

But the truth is, I am happy I am a mom. And more specifically, I am happy I am the mom of my 3 beautiful boys.

It’s May 3rd. 5 years ago today, I laid my eyes for the first time on a beautiful baby boy who grew into the charming little man that he is today, fuss-free.

Andy is the typical kind of boys, but nothing about him is typical.

He has a heart of gold, but don’t try to tick him off.

He has one interesting character that never goes unnoticed, and boy does he love car toys and tough play. On the other hand, he is the sweetest, most tender boy you could ever meet. He will run to give you a hug and smile from ear to ear at you, and you will be instantly hooked. See, typically not typical.

My Andy went through a lot, yes, already. He is the type of people to overcome things by blazing through them. In his book, there’s no way past it, only through it. And this about him inspires me endlessly.

Anyone who asks his daddy and me would get the answer that “he grew up in the blink of an eye and we didn’t even feel it” (in Lebanese, “rebe ma hassayna fi”). He is the calmest, most peaceful baby ever, and this is part of the reason I am not ready for him to grow up! I know it’s silly, I do want to see him an all grown, successful man, but I am in no hurry whatsoever.

Excuse my thoughts that are all over the place, I’m getting emotional again while I wipe my tears off the keyboard. Happy tears, nothing but happy tears.

To my most beloved Andy: I wish you endless days of happiness and health. I wish you a lifetime of good days, full of smiles, laughter and gratitude. I wish you love and light, like you light up our lives and fill them with unconditional love.

And remember, I will always, always be here for you. I will always root for you. You have, in me, a forever fan.