And just like that you are three!
It usually feels like the days between these birthday letters seem to be fly by before my eyes. But, if I’m being honest, this one seems to be timely. Because my sweet baby C, you’ve grown up so much this past year. Your toddling babyhood seems to have all but disappeared and you’ve grown so naturally into your role as a hyung-ah (big brother) to B.
Even in the last few weeks, as you potty trained (yourself!!), you are truly my “big boy,” and it makes my umma heart swell with so much pride and my eyes brim with bittersweet tears.
This year was full of so many milestones that I can hardly catch my breath when I’m boastfully talking about what an amazing little boy you are. And even at such a young age, your heart is so big; your compassion for those around you amazes us daily through your thoughtful actions and words of consideration.
“Are you okay, hyung-ah?” | “Umma, flowers for you!” | “No, not that’s not good for you, B”
As considerate as you are, you’re also wildly independent. You are our little drummer boy, always happy to march to the beat of his own drum. With no care in the world to what anyone thinks, you still teach us daily to chase after our every want and need. Because, truly, is there any other way to live?
You are your big brother’s shadow and echo. And your little brother’s protector. You are your daddy’s mini-me. You butt heads and test each other’s stubborness often. But, in the same vein, the laughter you two share together, is an altogether special joy of its own. You are forever my middle little and you have a special place in my heart. I don’t think that it will ever go away, my depth of gratitude and appreciation for how well you play your role as the one sandwiched between in our little band of brothers.
You so gracefully teach us how to speak up for yourself without seeming selfish, knowing when to follow along and when to take the lead. Your patience and openness to taking on whatever comes your way will never go unnoticed by me or your dad.
As we look forward to the next year and as we send you off to preschool, I smile knowing that you will spread your confidence and happiness wherever you go.
Thank you for teaching us how to truly just be in the moment. To do what we love and to be with those we love whenever possible.
Happy third birthday, my darling son.
I love you to the moon and back. And back again.
Cheers to Three – C’s Third Birthday
