3

Joey,

It's weird to say you are 3 when it actually feels like you are 4 because you have been in my world since the second we found out we were pregnant. You were the first born for a reason. You have changed my world completely.

The bond between us is so unique. Since you have been such a sick little guy I have sheltered you and protected you. Just recently I have let you go-- I let you leave the room with friends, I let you go outside (fenced in back yard) to play by yourself, and I let you go potty by yourself (which is huuuuge for me). With every sickness you get tougher. You used to take medicine like candy, now you'd rather tough it out. Just recently you have started to test the boundaries- as hard as it is for me I love that you are gaining a mind of your own because you used to be such a softie.

I am still trying to keep you as my little boy though. You are 42 lbs and I still carry you when you get too tired to ride your bike. I still have you in a crib and diapers are still my best friend. I let you drink milk like a bottle and I rock you as long as I can. When I look at you, I see me. I love every piece of you and I continue to thank the Lord for letting me keep you as long as I have. Every day I look back on to June 15, 2009 when we almost lost you and I feel so blessed to still have you here on Earth.

I am finally feeling comfortable putting you and Ray Ray above everything else. You are true gifts and I can't wait for my friends to experience the wonderful gifts of children. Today was such a happy day and I can't wait to celebrate again at your party Sunday. You make my life better.

I love you Joey.

Mommu