On your third birthday…
Dear Readers,
I ask for your indulgence of me again this year. When my daughter was born three years ago, I vowed to write her a letter each year on her birthday, with the hopes that one day she can look back at these and smile. Thanks for understanding.
Dear Sutton,
There is a song you’ve been singing for a couple of months now. It goes, “I love you. You love me. We’re a happy family.”
The other night, you made up your own version, singing, “I love you. You love me. I am happy now I’m three.”
You’re right. You’re happy and you’re three.
How fast the time has gone. It seemed just like yesterday you were toddling around and saying “mama.” Now, you’re able to hold discussions on what you did each day and the fun you’re planning in the future. You’ve blossomed into a little person in front of our eyes.
Part of these changes include learning to find your own voice. You’ve never really struggled with that one, have always seemed able to communicate far beyond your years.Telling your dad he was “ruining your life,” when you were only two seems too much, however, and hopefully one day you can see all he was trying to do was keep you safe. (Jumping on bed equals hitting your head and crying. It’s really pretty simple.)
You are a fortunate child in that you’re surrounded by a wealth of loving family and friends. I know you will come to appreciate this even more as you grow older. You will hear it said that it takes a village to raise a child. You’re in the fortunate position of being a child with a virtual city of loving people around you. Enjoy and appreciate it.
Your dad and I have great hopes for your future. As you said the other day when you saw photos of all the US presidents, “you think they need some more girls around.” Maybe you can be that girl.
Or maybe you will do something else entirely, something quiet and unheralded, but no less meaningful.
Whatever you choose, I hope you will be happy and be a contributor to this planet. There is no other Sutton quite like you. You need to bring those unique qualities to all the things you do.
And remember that mom and dad are here to help guide you along the way. It’s our job and it’s our privilege, too.
We love you.
Mom
