Dear Clare,

You turned three years old yesterday.  When I told you it was your birthday you said “Really?  Is it really, really my birthday?”  Yes my dear, after those months spent waiting, yesterday was your birthday.  I hope it was everything that you wanted it to be.

You were quite particular about what you wanted for your birthday.  You wanted a party, with balloons, friends and “pie, cake and ice cream.”  You wanted your pie and cake to be chocolate, which we provided, and you wanted everyone to sing to you.  You were surrounded by love all day, which was a wonderful way to celebrate you.  You bring a tremendous amount of joy to all of us both with your mere presence, but also with your wit, charm and thoughtful but joyful way of viewing the world.

At three years old, your favorite things in the world are (still) music, books and animals.  You are developing more of an imagination and really enjoy playing imaginary games with your stuffed animals and little figures.  You cook meals in your kitchen and serve them to your animals at the table, read stories to them, and change their diapers and put them to bed.  You’re a very loving caretaker to your babies and animals.

This year you became a big sister and have embraced it.  You love your little brother very much, though you occasionally get a little bit possessive about your toys.  It’s so heartwarming to see the two of you play together.  He absolutely adores and idolizes you already.  I hope that you will continue to be good friends as you get older.

You are very aware of emotions and relationships between people, especially when people are sad, angry or have conflict.  You’re a sensitive soul and we talk a lot about big emotions like anger, sadness, frustration but also joy and happiness.  I know that you won’t always want to confide these big emotions to me but I will always try to listen to you when you do.

You are our little climbing monkey and love to be outside having adventures.  This year you’ve developed an appreciation for digging in the dirt, running barefoot in the grass, climbing rocks and jungle gyms, playing in sandboxes, wading in puddles and fountains and lots of active “big kid” stuff.  It’s been a bit hard for you to leave behind your “babyhood” and accept the wild world of being a “big kid” but, as is your way, after you gave it careful consideration you’ve embraced it with gusto.

I can’t wait to see what the next year brings for you as you continue to discover the world.  We’ll be right here by you, holding your hand if you need it, eager to hear your interpretation of what you see, and supporting you whenever we can.

Lots of love,
Your Mama