Dear Samantha (38 Month Update)

Dear Samantha,

Today, you turn 38 months old, and you continue to amaze your Daddy and I everyday. We love the fact that you're growing up, but wish you would slow down most days. You've become so independent and want to do everything it seems with no help. You're doing a great job at using the potty and making sure you wash your hands afterwards. You're even helping Sarah get excited to use it too! When we're ready to leave the house, you want to be the one to open the doors and close them. At first, I thought it might be an O.C.D thing, but I believe you genuinely like love to help. Once you get into Mommy's car, you go right over and sit in your car seat and buckle yourself in. You're getting to be such a big girl that Daddy and I have decided that next Summer we're going to buy you your first bike for your birthday. When Daddy took you inside the bicycle shop yesterday, Daddy said that you were so excited about all the different kinds of bikes. You and Daddy found the perfect sized bike and you just rode around the store. We're so excited that you're excited to be doing these things.

Daddy and I are also very happy at the fact that you've taken such an interest in music. We listen to a lot of music during the day whether we're at home or in the car. I don't know many 3 year olds who can identify song titles and band name. If I had a dollar for every time you ask me "Who sings this song?" or "What band is this?" I could fill the gas tank in my car. Although, you really surprised Nanny and I at lunch the other day when you identified the song "The Sweetest Thing" by U2 without any prompting, or without any help. I'm glad to know that even when I don't think you're listening, you are and more importantly, you're remembering and learning from that information.

We are also enjoying the conversations that go on in the car. We discuss everything from what song is currently playing, to the direction that we're traveling in, what direction we're traveling, to what town we're currently located in. Daddy and I try very hard to be patient while answering your questions because we know that is the only way you're going to learn.

We love you so very much. Keep growing, and keep wanting to learn...but slow down and enjoy your life. I know you won't listen to me until you're an adult, (and I should probably get used to that now *wink wink*). You've certainly made our lives amazing just by being in it. God knew we needed you, and we are so glad you arrived when you did.

Love always, Mommy & Daddy

This is what you looked like one year ago in September 2009

And this is what you look like today September 3, 2010: