Three Years Old!

Mercutio Anthony,

You are three! Outstandingly, and amazingly, three!

Last year, when you turned two, you woke up a different person. You were instantaneously more independent and you wanted to do everything for yourself.

The only problem, was that there were some things you couldn't do, and we had to help. Determined though you were, to carry the whole gallon of milk to your cereal bowl, we ultimately had to pour it. You did not appreciate this. 

I realized then, when you freaked out and for the first time, without being sick - you refused to eat, that you were going to be a lot more like me than I imagined. 

It's difficult to accept help, but those who love you only want the best. You don't have to shoulder burdens alone when you have family and friends who care - and you have plenty of people in your corner.

This is a lesson that I am still learning in my old age. Just recently, knowing we might have to ask one of your Uelis for help sent me into a frenzy unlike any other. There's pride in doing things for yourself, I know - and when you have to ask someone for help with anything your pride takes a gigantic hit.

At three, you understand this. I watch your frustration as you struggle to do something you have accomplished a hundred times before - and I see the anguish in your face as you relent and allow us to help you. 

My sweet munchkin, you have so much to be proud of. From your many developmental accomplishments, to your facetious personality, your wonderful brother skills, your bright imagination and even your defiance - you are incredible {and also sometimes, an incredible pain in the rear}.

I don't ever want you to feel ashamed, or afraid, to ask for help. We'll work on it together, okay?

I apologize for your birthday letter being days late, we had just gotten in to North Carolina the night before and your father and I spent all night reeling from the trip, and our new home - I had tried to write to you, but the words wouldn't come. And neither would web access, I found out, we live less than a mile away from the coverage area of my provider - isn't that so completely the story our life?  

I was not going to write your birthday letter in advance, that wasn't fair, so late it is. 

You did wonderfully on the trip {and beforehand in the midst of all the crazy packing and frustration}.

Though you had a few meltdowns and accidents, you danced with us in the car, joined into our conversations and were pleasant up until the very last leg - when I distinctly remember smiling at you as you made binoculars with your fingers, and as soon as you saw me, you crossed your arms and gave me your famous mean face. There is so much of me in your personality, it's frightening.

Hilariously, you wake up each morning and you tell me how "Hungry for a snack" you are, and I'm usually tempted to give in and have one with you. 

No one can sway you from the way that you feel, or what you want. If you want Lucky Charms for breakfast, no amount of Caesar's convincing will change your mind to eat Froot Loops instead. 

You have a smile that lights the hearts of everyone in the room, our world is a brilliant one because you are a part of it, Mercutio. I am so very proud of you, and I love you so very, very much.

Happy {belated} Birthday! 

Comments

[pamela]

Happy belated birthday to your beautiful little boy.

Natalie sends kisses.