Happy Birthday, Big Guy

Today Corey turns 4. It's hard to believe that 4 years ago, we brought a little boy into this world. Gone are the days of bottles, diapers, propping him up with pillows and baby monitors. There are no more car seats with those annoying 'rear view' mirros and we said goodbye to baby gates a long while back.

He is a little man. One with emotions, fears, hopes and dare I say, sarcasm.

Today we celebrate with his birthday party. Family and friends will join together for an afternoon of games and then a visit to the local firehouse. Corey loves fireman...he gets that from me, I guess. I've been told that I can bring my camera, but the rules are that

1. Corey must be in all pictures with the fireman
2. The fireman will remain fully dressed.

A tad disappointing, but somewhat appropriate for four year olds, I gather.

Corey also has a movie about fireman. Again, apples don't fall far from trees... though I'm betting our movies are quite different.

There are days I feel lucky, but on days like today, I'm the luckiest man alive. No greater gift has been bestowed on me than to be this little guy's dad. I hope I never take it for granted.

Enjoy some of my favorite pictures from the early days.