Matthew's Third Year Letter

Sunday, January 18, 2004

Dear Matthew,
          I cannot believe that you are three already. Where has the time gone? This past year has been full of surprises, fun, and lots of laughter. I think you're going to be a comedian like your Uncle Dave.

          The one thing I've noticed is that you are very smart. Your memory seems to be quite sharp as well. I hope that will be with you throughout your life. If you misplace something, you will find it in due time.

          You are now 3' tall and weigh 31.5lbs. I knew you were going to grow, but I didn't think this fast. Daddy and I are trying our best to introduce you to new foods that you haven't tried before. You are still stubborn and will not try. What I can't figure out is: you will eat French fries, and potato chips, but you won't eat potatoes. You will eat chicken nuggets and Kentucky Fried, but you won't eat fresh chicken. You love pizza, McDonald's, Applebees, and TGIFridays. You also love steak, hot dogs, kielbasa, and soup.

          One of your personality traits that I've noticed is that you are stubborn and want things your own way. You've taken to throwing yourself on the floor in tantrums, and I keep telling you that's not acceptable. You are at the point where you think everything will go YOUR way. Life isn't that way, and we're trying to teach you that.

          Your grandparents got you a sand/water table to play with outside. Daddy got some sand and filled up the box. You proceeded to try to throw out the sand all over the patio. You also tried to "help" dad plant flowers. You seemed to love being out in the sunshine and walking around. I know that would help when it came time to get ready for bed. You would be too tired to protest.

          I wanted to make sure you were able to know how to swim. We were unable to pay for lessons at the YMCA. I don't want you to end up like your dad or your great uncle Lou. Neither of them know how to swim.

          Christmas time was the time you made out like a bandit. Since your birthday is three weeks after Christmas, Grandpa and Grandma came the week after Christmas to exchange gifts. You made the motherload. There were too many gifts to mention. You did receive Hot Wheel cars, View Master, a Slinky, and a Play-Doh Creativity Table.

          This year has proved to be easier for me, but a somewhat challenge for you. Hopefully, the next year will be better.

I love you Matthew,
Mommy