Happy Birthday Ry!

My sweet boy, you turned three on Monday. What joy you have brought to Mommy's and Daddy's lives.

This year we have lived out the terrible and wonderful two's. You have exerted your independence and pushed every barrier. Though it has been difficult, at times, to establish boundaries and to exert greater authority over you, it has been a joy. You never stop making Mommy and Daddy laugh with your silly faces, your cute dances, and your re-enactment of super heroes fighting the bad guys. Your imagination has really grown this year. One of our greatest joys has been watching you and Madeline grow in friendship. You love to play together and to make each other laugh. Some of your favorite games are "doggy" where Madeline is the mommy and you are the doggy, and superheroes, where you both fight the bad guys and Maddie is the princess. Yesterday we went for your 3yr. visit at the doctor's office and you and Maddie both got flu shots. Before she got the shot, Madeline was crying because she was scared. You looked at her and said, "It's 'kay Mawdelynn, don be scaded, you hold my hand". You then grabbed her hand. And the two of you have been sleeping together in your room every night. You sleep on the top bunk and she sleeps below. Mommy and Daddy love hearing you guys play and talk before you fall asleep.

You have also developed a real love for your friends this year. You truly LOVE your friends. You are always excited to spend time with Chase, Lance, Jackson, and Ty.

This has also been the year of the mohawk. Mommy and Daddy have had lots of fun spiking it. And recently you have loved dressing up in costumes and playing with your sister and friends. For your birthday, we got you an Optimus Prime costume. You have been wearing almost every waking moment since you received it. You also love to wear your batman mask and your spiderman costume. It is so fun to see your passions.

Sweet boy, we love you so much. God has great things for your life. You are so sweet and tender, and so energetic and boyish. You are God's unique and special creation.