Yesterday, you turned 5.   I am having a really hard time processing this, because I can barely remember what life was like before you, and at the same time, the last 5 years have flown by.  In so many ways you have become such a big boy, and I am so proud of you.  But I can’t tell you how much I treasure the child you still are.   Your birthday was pretty hectic,  I rushed off to work in the morning and got home shortly before your bedtime.  It was a challenging day, but I can barely remember why.  But what I do remember was not the stress of the workday or commute home. What I hope to carry with me always was the following: I’m sitting in the basement watching TV, decompressing from the day and the phone/intercom rings. It was you . You asked me if I could please (I love when you say please) come upstairs and tuck you back in bed.  As I made my way up the stairs, I saw you standing in the darkened hallway waiting for me. Blanket wrapped around you. Teddy Bear, Godot, in your arms.  You waited patiently, clicking your flashlight on and off. I tucked you back in an gave you one more Happy birthday kiss and you gave me such a hug. I know someday you won’t need me to tuck you in anymore, and I know with every passing birthday, that day comes closer and closer. But that hug was the best present you could have possibly given me on your birthday!

© 2012, Corey Feldman. All rights reserved.