3.

Quinn turned 3 last Friday.  And I was so ready for it.  In the past I've felt nostalgic and a bit sad around his birthday, but this year was different.  It's been such a big year for us, with the birth of Kira and moving into our first home.  We've all had to transition and adjust, but for Quinn, this adjustment has been the most noticeable.  This year has had it's share of challenges, sure.  But those challenges have been overshadowed by so much joy.  And Quinn is central to so much of the joy in our life.  

So, what do I want to note about Quinn at 3?

He's adventurous. Still.

He's stubborn.

He's protective of his sister and he loves her fiercely.  

He's finally given up the bink.  Hopefully.  But in order to do so, Kira had to give it up too.  It's a long story that I'll probably never fully tell.  It's embarrassing. But, it's gone.  I hope.  

He loves puzzles.  And he's pretty darn good at them.

He's still in diapers.  That's my next hurdle/goal.

He knows his letters.

I worry about his language development.  

He's a boundary tester.   

He's quite sensitive.  And also very imaginative.

He's inquisitive.

He counts to ten.  Usually in English, but sometimes in Spanish, too.  Thank-you Dora and Diego.

He's got the best laugh on this planet.  Well, maybe he ties with his sister.  The two of them laughing together, that's the best.  And, I get to hear it nearly every day.  

He sucks at sharing.  

He loves screens.  Movies, tv, computers, phones...  I'm not proud of it, but it's the honest truth.

He has a preschool teacher who he loves and who loves him.  

Notable quote:  

Me:  "Quinn, I need you to be a nice boy."

Quinn:  "No, mommy.  I be myself."

I think there's a lesson in there somewhere for me.  Of course, I am striving to raise a kind child, but I want him to be true to himself.  Always.  And so far he is certainly that.  

Parenting is so hard.  But I am thankful for the responsibility. 

He has taught me unconditional love.  And if there's one thing I want him to know, it's that I will never stop loving him.  Quinn, thank you for being you.  You are so loved.  

Happy 3rd birthday!