Happy 3rd Birthday to Captain Computer!

Dear Captain Computer,

You are the reason I didn’t want to go to BlogHer this year. I know that you will have birthdays for years to come, you are growing up so quickly and I didn’t want to miss your final days of being two.

This year you went from being a silent observer to a boy who has lots to say. Much like your sister, your vocabulary is developing rapidly. I think it comes from you being a keen observer, listening to your sister talk, and your interest in books. I Stink, Fish Out of Water, and What Do People Do All Day? are clearly favorites along with any book about trains, construction, and other things that go. You love to listen to stories and it warms my heart when you ask your sister to read a book to you and I see the two of you tucked in underneath a blanket with a stack of books.

You straddle the line between being fiercely independent and still needing us. One of my favorite parts of the day is snuggling with you during nap time. It is a rare time of day when you are still. Once you wake up, you are on the go! Happiness comes from helping whether it is with yard work, basement projects, or cooking. I love the way you always want to help and wish I could bottle your enthusiasm for every construction project, desire to use the shovel to clean off the porch when it snows, or sweep the crumbs underneath your chair.

You possess confidence and don’t hesitate in telling us exactly what you want. I was amazed when we went to the hardware store and you told me you wanted a wheelbarrow. You were incredibly convincing and certainly had good reasons for wanting it. I know you are proud of your wheelbarrow and it will be a constant companion for our garden projects.

You are quite thoughtful and love your sister with incredible devotion. She’s your best friend and best playmate. Whether building with blocks, creating tracks for your marbles to run down, operating the electric train, or playing dress up your sister is usually by your side. I love that you always remember to share with her whether wanting to wrap up made-from-scratch rolls made in school or remembering to ask for a lollipop for her when you get your hair cut and she’s not with you. I know you miss her when she isn’t around but I think you enjoy our special time together and discovering new ways to play. You are incredibly adept at building towers, operating the electric trains that were Daddy’s and the new ones from Uncle Jim, and riding your bike. I know you don’t get a chance to tell us everything you want to. It is hard to compete with a sister who is quick with answers and tries to talk for you!

As I write this, I can only imagine what I might be writing at this time next year as you finish your first year of preschool. I think you will love finally getting to go to school on your own, having you own peer group, experiencing things independently, and the challenge of learning new things.

I’m sitting on the plane, almost home, thinking about the big hugs and kisses I will get from you soon and I can’t wait.

Happy birthday! I’ve missed you and am so glad to be coming home.

Love always, Mama

*All pictures were taken from today’s birthday celebration. BlogHer recap coming soon!