You've always looked at me like this.

Like you know me. Like you've always known me. The same way I look at you.

I found this picture just last weekend. Days later, in a brief email chat I had with your teacher, she wrote "I do think it's great that Gunnar talks to you about those things. I hope you two keep that line of communication open for a long time!"

Her words reminded me of a moment we shared sometime last year. A moment that compelled me to share it here, in words that would always remind us of this closeness. Words I never found time to bring here.

It was when you were so into the Star Spangled Banner. Wanting to learn the words so you could sing it at opening ceremonies for your toy dirtbike races. I printed them for you and you stood before me one night, next to the couch, standing over the track we made when you were 3. You stood in front of me and belted out the words.

I remember looking at you and marveling at how nothing stands between us. You know me, so you know not to fear my reaction. In that moment, you knew I wouldn't laugh. That trust is just one of the gifts you give me every day.

I hope I'm always worthy of it.