To Jane, On Your 3rd Birthday

Dear Jane,

Happy Birthday!  Happy day for you Pumpkin, Pumpkin Butter, Sweetie, Cutie.  Oh, I know, you'll say, "I'm not Pumpkin, I'm a girl, I'm Jane!"  That's right.  You know who you are already.  Three years ago, when you arrived 2 weeks early, Aunt Kathy said, "This is just the beginning, she'll keep you on your toes, nothing will be as expected."  And you have been your own person.  But in a nice, easy going, oh so girly way.

You are friendly and adaptable.  "It's all good," we have given you as a motto.  Go to the store, sure.  Stay home, sure.   Change in plans, no problem.  Does it include a balloon or a sticker or a lollipop?  I'm there.  So easy.  You believe that a kiss will fix any boo boo.  You get angry with Scott, but then quickly forget and race to play some more. 

You want to be included.  You talk to the boys as they get in the car at school pick up.  "See my new shoes?  And my cast is off, see?"  Whether they are listening or not, you are telling the world what you want people to know.  I see glimpses of the possible performer to come.  You like to tell a story and have the full attention of your audience, but you do not demand it.  You do not need to have temper tantrums.  It is as if you are already beyond that.

You love music, recognizing songs and dancing along.  "Libby's feet sound like music."  You surprise us by remembering a tune you've heard only once and repeating it back correctly.  One night you made up a song in front of the mirror while you brushed your teeth. 

Suddenly you are all about being a big girl.  No need for a booster seat at the table, or a sippy cup.  You are using regular utensils and putting puzzles together on your own.  You stand at the fence and talk to the neighbors without anybody else around.  You have a new self-confidence.

This year holds many new exciting adventures.  Preschool and new friends, learning and playing.  Doing things on your own and with the big kids.  It is hard to explain exactly, but you seem so comfortable in your own skin.  Like you know that you light up a room, but you don't need to prove anything or fight for anything.  As if your place in the world is to easily fit in, participate fully and make everyone feel better after being with you.

As you do your signature bouncy walk into the backyard, your hair swishing from your new sassy bob hair cut, it's as if you are saying, "So long toddlerhood!  I am 3 now!" 

I am holding back tears, knowing that you're growing up, but that you'll always be my baby.

Happy Birthday Janie!

I love you,

Mommy

Comments

[KathyS]

Happy Birthday to darling Jane!
She is a joy, this jolly little girl who sings on the way to "Perkie's." She directs the "baseball game" in the playroom and tells Nana and PopPop who to cheer for (PopPop for Scott; Nana for Janie). She's full of smiles and light. She warms my heart.
Happy Birthday, darling Jane - I love you.
Nana