3 Years Old!

Stratton, today is your birthday!  Three years ago today I checked into the hospital for your induction- you were 7 days overdue and there was no sign that you were planning to make an appearance any time soon!  Well, my pregnancy with you made total sense the moment I met you- a snugly, sweet, even keeled baby.  You were a delight and we were thrilled to welcome you into our family.

 September 9, 2009

You have grown so much- particularly this past year.  You really look and act like a BOY not a baby or toddler!  You have excellent communication skills and can express yourself clearly.  You love people, are friendly and like to make others laugh.  Sometimes you get frustrated and throw a bit of a fit- but you have learned to "pull it together" and move on with things :) You are a thinker- you will plan out an activity or day in your mind and then describe what you want to do sequentially.  Lately your writing skills have improved.  You can write the letter "S" without help and can copy/trace your name.  You draw circles, squares, triangles and people.  You have learned gymnastics in the last year, how to pedal a bike by yourself, to swim alone with floaties and hold your breath underwater. You like to golf with dad and have even played 9 holes at a time.  You have made new friends, discovered a love for trains and racing cars, and like to play make believe.  You have an excellent memory and have memorized a handful of Bible verses this summer- you even remember the references!  You like to be the one to pray before dinner and bedtime.  You are charming and have the ladies in your life wrapped around your finger!

 You have adjusted well to being a big brother.  We have noticed that you have been a little wittier since your brother arrived and are telling lots of jokes and doing cute/funny things to make us laugh!

Strat, you are such a special boy.  We love you more than you could ever imagine.  You have a beautiful heart that we pray will grow to love and trust Jesus more and more.

Happy 3rd Birthday to you, Strat!!!