Three Year Letter

Dear Foster,

THREE! What a little man you've become in the last year. I look back to pictures when I was pregnant with Shep and you still looked like my baby, and now you've grown into an amazing little boy.

You are such a curious and patient boy. I'm often reminded of how mature you are when you're putting up with Shep smacking you, being dragged all over the place as your dad and I work or run errands, or dealing with the trials of toddlerhood. You've never been one to throw tantrums and I thank you for that (although sometimes you'll 'try it out' a bit).

This last year has seen some big changes for you. You became a big brother! Watching you learn how to care for and deal with having a little baby around has been the source of a lot of joy and heartache. I miss being able to spend a lot of time with just you, especially now that you are old enough to ask so many smart questions and really discuss things and learn. At the same time, I love that you have a built-in playmate who can get around on the floor and do all the things with you that you want to do and I may not have the time for (or the energy). Shep is lucky to have you, you're a thoughtful and caring big brother.

This year took you to Whistler with family, Mexico with friends (and into the depths of a bad case of Montezuma for all of us), and lots of time with Omee, ChuChu, Nana and Pa during the week while I work.

It's your last year of no school, you'll be starting preschool a few days a week this Fall. I'm so excited for you to have more time with kids your age. You thrive when around other kids and love to imitate them as you learn how to interact with bigger groups of kids you don't know. You're a great little mimic and it reminds me that I have to watch what I do and say because you're always paying close attention.

You will ask a million questions, often the same one to make sure you get the same answer each time or from different sources. No one is going to pull a fast one on you.

You still shy away from messy things but Shep has increased your willingness to get your hands dirty and try new things...ironically. I often ask you where you learn something and you'll respond with 'Bae Brah taught me'. Sometimes I believe that, like when you stick rocks in your mouth or throw something....other times it's less likely such as when you're taking apart the sound machine in your room.

I love you so, so, so very much. I want to freeze time during this sweet phase of your life but I also can't wait to see how you grow and change next.

Big kisses,

Momma