Change is on the Horizon

Things you have taught us:

You are one of those children that time out does NOT work for. You are intelligent, creative, and just plain stubborn. You don't like being forced to sit still, and you take out revenge the minute you are released. This often causes more problems than simply submitting and owning up to the reason you were punished in the first place. But you always voice your discontent in the most creative manner.

Debate skills are a necessity. You are a future debate champion, I just know it. I don't know whether to be impressed or embarrassed by the fact I routinely lose debates to a 3.5 year old.

You are caring and compassionate. Keep that up. You are so sensitive to the needs of others, and when you don't know how to help them, you get visibly upset. Don't ever let anyone change that.

You have a sense of adventure that should be envied by all. You don't shy away from anything, and you love to travel and experience new things.

You are intelligent. Not just standard "your parents think you are smart" intelligent. I mean, surprisingly and frighteningly intelligent. You have made it your goal to learn about the things you like and how they work - that being airplanes and trains right now. You can tell people all about them. That, and butterflies. You did a butterfly project at daycare almost a year ago...and you still tell us about the stages of a butterfly's life.

Your memory. OMG your memory! You never forget anything. It's both amazing and frustrating at the same time. But more amazing.

We love you so much. Continue to amaze us and make us proud of you, LM.

Growing Up Brothers

Lately, you have been such a wonderful big brother. You help mommy and daddy when brother needs food or a snack. You let us know when he needs to be changed, if we haven't already noticed. You even play and teach him new things.

It is heartwarming to hear you talk about your brother being your best friend. Your latest conversation with me:

I want to fly big planes.
Me: You mean you want to be a pilot when you grow up?
Yes. I like big planes.
Me: That is good. You have a goal, that is very important.
I know. I want to fly planes because why, because I want to learn to fly and take my brother places.
Me: Aww, you want your brother to go with you?
Uh-huh. I want to take him with me. He can be my co-pilot. I want to take him because he is my best friend.
Me: You love your brother, don't you?
Yes. He's my best friend. I wuv him too much. I can't wait to play with him outside.

You have been dying to go outside and have a watergun fight with your brother. Soon, my little monkey. Soon you will be able to play outside in the warm sunshine.

Three Years

They say that the terrible threes is much worse than the terrible twos.

You are about halfway through the milestone known as the terrible threes.

We had big changes when you were almost three. Your baby brother came into the world.

We feared your adjustment. We weren't sure how you'd handle no longer being the center of attention. Yes, there were some rough spots, but overall you adjusted very well.

You are a loving big brother. You love to help us feed baby, and love to play with him and show him things.

You make me proud every single day to be your mommy.

You are so vibrant and loving. So intelligent. So observant.

Above that, your communication skills are absolutely amazing.

Your vocabulary continues to amaze us. Your compassion is a beautiful thing. Don't ever let anyone change your heart, little one. You are perfect.

Little Monkey, you are awesome.