To Our Sweet Four-Year-Old Thatcher

Thatcher Rippy Davis...such a big name for a little boy! I've been asked many times how we came up with your name. Well, I was trying to think of a strong name from literature, and my brainstorming led me to Catcher in the Rye. I know the main character is Holden but I got Thatcher from Catcher. Next you needed a middle name. Daddy and I thought of all our grandpas and Daddy's grandpa, Rippy Lee Rambo, stood out. Thatcher Rippy Davis. I pictured you at different times in your life and made sure the name fit you as a baby, as a little boy, as a teenager, as a man with a family of his own, and later when life slows down and you can reflect on your mark on this world. And of course since you're our second boy, I just had to nickname you Bubba.

And now Thatcher Rippy "Bubba" Davis, you are four-years-old! Every day you amaze us with new things you are learning (like your current reciting of the presidents!) and new little quirks in your personality. You still say and do so many things like Tucker but you're starting to grow into your own self. You've begun to show empathy and compassion for those around you. Except for Tucker. You always know how to get his goat! I hope these traits blossom and grow and lead you to a life of integrity, honesty, and sincerity.

You still say "sit by me" and you still want to hold my hand, and I hope you always want to do both! You're still a daddy's boy, but I've come to terms with that, and I'll take the snuggles when I can get them!

I love your wide feet and your very first freckle (on the side of your ring finger on your right hand). You have really great hair (Papa Bill even says so!) and the cutest face with the sweetest smile.

You've grown up so much this past year, but you'll always be our sweet baby boy.

We love you so so much,
Momma and Daddy