An Open Letter To My Son on His 3rd Birthday
To My Handsome, Brilliant, Charming ODP—
You have seen so much change this year! You:
Went to a new school
Moved into your big boy bed and new room
Learned to use the potty
Hung out a lot with your family during a global pandemic
Grew at least two sizes
Increased your vocabulary by infinity
Figured out how to be a big brother
And on and on and on
We are forever proud of the huge strides you’re making and the person you are. I have never met a smarter human and I know about smart humans because I am one, and Grandma Alice says your dada is a double smart one. That doesn’t make him smarter than me. Just different smart. Never forget that.
I love that you are determined and stubborn and clever. I love that when I blow you kisses, you catch them, even if you sometimes spit them out. I love that you finally let me hold your hand most of the times I reach for it. I love that you still need me, even when I don’t want to be needed. I love that you asked me to have a sleepover last night, even though you yelled at me and told me to stop singing you “Happy Birthday” this morning because, according to you, your birthday was over. You keep me on my toes.
Sometimes (okay, often), I’ll look at you and marvel at how amazing you are and remind myself that I grew you in my body and worked really hard to get that big brain of yours out. You are such a gift to so many people—I think you know that.
My wishes for you this year:
That you never lose your curiosity about the world, and your already deep wisdom
That you believe you CAN
That you get to enjoy endless carrots from your garden, and learn to like a few other veggies
That you get to spend more time with the people who love you most, make new friends at preschool (if it ever re-opens) and, in turn, teach US all the things
That you keep asking to learn more about your Grandpa Doug
And that you start being nicer to the cats
My little olive branch—you are a peacemaker and a beautiful little sage. Never change.
We love you. Happy birthday!
