Spot's birthday bash

On the day L was born, N gave us each a present.

I received a package of aroma therapy products, which I loved, but L got something a little more significant. It was her grand entrance into the world, after all.

N had dashed out to a local toy boutique in our hometown in Maine on the eve of her birth to choose something lovable for his firstborn child. What he found was a plush puppy--sweetly beige and soft, and perfectly squishy.



During L's infancy, this little dog somehow adopted the name "Spot" and always seemed to find its way into her crib for naps and nighttime. I think N was secretly trying to foster a bond between L and his special gift to her. He no-doubt had visions of her toting him, tattered and worn, off to college someday.



Over L's first four years, Spot has spent most of his time nestled between the pillows atop L's bed, but has also been out in the world long enough to have traveled the country and required several spins through the washer and dryer.



Spot is an essential accompaniment to doctor visits, airplane flights, long car trips and overnight visits with friends while awaiting the arrival of a new baby brother. His ears are great for wiping away tears and his nose nuzzles perfectly next to a mouth that desperately wants to suck a thumb but knows it's too big for that now.

He is always polite at tea parties and never strays from his master's side on walks. Spot is the perfect companion.



This morning, L hopped out of bed promptly at 7, donned a blue party dress and came into our room to announce that today was "Spotty's birthday." He was 3, but today he is turning 4. I wasn't aware such an occasion was upon us, but none-the-less I thought it was certainly a day worthy of celebration.

After waffles and fresh fruit, L assembled all of Spot's closest animal pals dressed in silly hats for a party on the living-room rug. L built a cake out of blocks and placed a plastic cow on top for his candle. We sang happy birthday and C broke out the musical instruments to serenade Spot following the party. I think Spot enjoyed himself.

To be sure, L adores Spot and he has been the vessel that contained all of the nurturing and adoration L had bubbling up inside before she had a little brother upon whom she now lavishes most of that affection. I think finding something to call her own and to be the soul caregiver of that something has been vital to L's early development. I think it is for every little person.

I certainly understand what it feels like to love someone so much that you just can't sleep without snuggling them up close one last time before closing your eyes. I'm blessed enough to have a few of those "someones" in my life.