Dear Tyler -- 3 years old

Dear Tyler,

Last night you fell asleep clutching your new sword (actually a princess wand) that you picked from the birthday box at school. You are three years old now. My big boy. You started preschool in September. I can't say you love it yet (you still cry pretty much at every drop off) but I do believe the idea is growing on you. Really, though, you just want to be with your mama. My little mama's boy. Correction -- my BIG little mama's boy.

Every day you love to tell me secrets. You cup your little hand around your ear and stick your ear next to my ear and then whisper, "I'm in love with you mama." It melts my heart every single time. You like another game too. You ask me if I'll still be your mama when you're old -- as old as Daddy, as old as Grammie, as old as Papa Bob. And my answer is always the same. I will be your mama forever and ever and ever and ever and ever. It's the best thing I've ever been. And the best thing I ever will be.

These days you are into firetrucks and superheroes. You were the cutest little fireman ever for Halloween, and followed it up with a firefighter birthday party. I don't think you really liked being the center of attention too much, but you sure did light up when a real Norfolk firetruck pulled into our driveway and gave you and your friends a whole tour of his truck...and even turned on his lights and siren. You loved it.

You are sweet and shy and silly and independent...and freakishly strong. You love playing with your sister or by yourself. You are affectionate and loving and give the biggest best hugs. When you don't get your way though -- watch out. Avery has many bite wounds from her dear little brother to prove my point. Recently I chased you out of Avery's school and through the busy parking lot full speed. You did NOT want to listen to me. I nearly had a heart attack. Another time I tried wrestling you into your carseat and you punched me right in the nose. I couldn't believe it. I immediately got Daddy who came running down to scold you and guess what you did? You spit in his face! Woa!

Here's the thing with you though. You definitely test your limits. And then you learn your lesson. After I finally caught up to you in the parking lot, I threw you into the car, strapped you in and then made you sit there and watch as Avery and I played on the playground. You were pissed and heartbroken and the other moms were probably wondering what on earth was going on -- but you never ran through a parking lot again. After the punching/spitting incident, we took your lovey away for the whole morning. You cried and screamed and sobbed and then finally told me how sorry you were and that you learned your lesson. After I picked you up from the gym later that morning you handed me a picture and told me you made it for me because you loved me so much.

You are so easy to love, Tyler. And so easy to forgive. You bring me and Daddy so much joy every single day.

I love you so much sweet boy...forever and ever and ever.

Love,
Mommy