Three Years

Three years ago today, I started my journey into motherhood. I guess you could say that I truly began it three years and nine months ago, but I didn't really know what I was getting into until, after many days of waiting, and many many hours of labor, Ethan made his grand appearance on the morning of January 18th, 2007. The memories of exactly how I felt that morning are starting to fade, which saddens me because I know that it was the most intense emotion I have ever felt. I do know that his birth forever changed me for the better.

But the transformation did not end there. Although giving birth technically makes one a "mother", I am clearly much more of a mother today than I was three years ago. And while I'll throw some credit to my patient and grounding husband, my supportive and experienced parents, my equally-supportive and experienced in-laws, my commiserating and idea-sharing friends, a few great parenting books, and even the internet, most of my lessons in mothering came from Ethan himself. He has guided me through the often confusing and scary world of parenting, teaching me that kids actually tell you what they need and want, if you just listen. I have come out the other side of these three years with significantly more confidence, a little more patience, and a perspective that allows me to ignore the small stuff and focus on the big picture - all things that have made me a much better (and happier) mom.

But this post really isn't about me - it's about our not-so-little munchkin, who turns 3 today! Every year brings huge changes in the lives of wee ones, but I feel like this year was an especially big one for Ethan. He started his third year very much a toddler, chubby-limbed and baby-faced. Today, nearly all remnants of baby fat have disappeared, replaced by long, lanky limbs that he uses to climb, run, jump, and dance. He's shot up in height, and his face (and belly) have thinned considerably. He is now very much a boy. Gone are his crib and diapers, replaced by his big boy bed and undies. But the most significant changes for Ethan this past year have definitely happened between his ears. A late talker, Ethan was barely stringing together words on his second birthday. Today, he speaks...and speaks...and speaks. We are constantly amazed by his vocabulary, and the complexity of his thoughts and ideas. His imagination is working over-time, and I love just listening in to the worlds he creates as he plays independently, weaving fantasy with reality, all the while processing his world and his experiences. Ethan is developing a real sense of humor, testing his "jokes" on us and laughing at ours. He fights for independence, and is able to accomplish so much on his own - I have never, ever seen a kid (or adult, for that matter) tackle a puzzle like this guy does. But he still loves his snuggles - I cherish these as I know they are fleeting. Of course, with these changes come some undesirable ones too. With his burgeoning imagination comes new fears. His deepening emotions are sometimes too much for him to handle and he crumples under their weight. His struggle for independence meets frustration when there are things he simply can't do, yet. But Ethan's strength of character far outweighs these challenges, and my love for his developing personality only grows deeper. He continues to be a thoughtful, empathetic, kind child, generous with his smiles and his love. He is a smart little cookie, and a pure joy to be around (almost all the time!).

Happy 3rd Birthday to my sweet Ethan. I love you to the depths of my heart and soul, and am so proud to be your Mommy!