Dear Jake,
Happy Birthday! I can't believe you're four years old today.
You're such a funny little man. You make me laugh. Really.
I love that when you tell a story your voice gets really deep. Serious. Your daddy and Uncle Jason had the same voice when they were your age.
And, I enjoy telling "Jake stories" to all of my friends. They think you're pretty funny, too.
My favorite story to tell - the one that get's the biggest laughs - is when you were at the barber shop with your daddy. Your mom called and asked what you were doing and you said, "Mama, I'm gettin' my wig busted." Big laughs, Jake. Big laughs.
A few months ago, you called me and invited me to come eat pizza with you. When I explained that I was in New York, you said, "Go to the airport and get on a plane." I wish it were that easy.
And I think it's great that you won't wear white socks. They have to be some color, have a stripe or some design on them. I know you also are picky about your shirts. Stand your ground, Jake. Wear what you want to wear.
Except the hats. Jake, we've got to talk about the hats. Really, it's about your ears. I'm your uncle, and I love you unconditionally, but you've got to stop scrunching up your ears with those big hats. It's cute now, but I'm really worried that you're going to have floppy ears. It won't be nearly as cute when you're 20. Trust me. Keep the hats. Just keep them above the ears.
And another thing. You need to stop cussing simply because you're good at it. And you're four. Really, it's your daddy that needs to stop. But it's probably too late for that. So, you stop. And then I won't get in trouble for laughing at you. We all win.
So in just a few weeks, you're going to be a big brother. We've got plenty of time to talk about what that means. I'll just tell you that it won't ever be the same. It's better. You're going to get blamed for a few things that you didn't do. There's a good chance she's going to be really cute, and people are going to give her a lot of attention. Just be nice and love her. And don't cuss in front of her.
Jake, I love you.
Uncle Josh
P.S. I'll see you in a few days.