Jenny Laitinen (Sweden)

We're blessed to go to work each day,
With our dear son in your care;
Because you fill his days with play,
And new adventures, here and there.

It's clear to us that he loves you,
For your many patient virtues;
But best of all, you love him too,
For all the reasons we do.

You trim his nails and cut his hair,
And keep him well and healthy;
It's just the way a mother cares,
Boz, you're a part of our family.

As first-time parents, we're learning too,
About rules and undies, knives and forks;
You stand behind each thing we do,
With reinforcements and supports.

The standard that you keep in cleaning,
Is remarkable, time after time;
Please know that coming home to such a spotless scene,
(and the scent of meatballs) never fails to be sublime!

With initiative, you tidy up,
Clean and rearrange;
Without seeking praise, nor making fuss,
Even when the house is under builder's dust for days.

We're grateful for your flexibility,
When we're working late or travelling;
When crises threaten (like that disease that starts with C),
You're adaptive and never wavering.

We're both so proud of the life you've gained,
For yourself in our beautiful country;
The friends and exploits you've attained,
Are just a credit to your independence and maturity.

Before we know it, we'll be saying "Hej då!"
And though tears in our eyes will burn;
We know your travels to the next shore,
Will be paved by the confidence you've earned.