Just like that, I have a three-year-old. Cue the waterworks, gray hair, and Mom jeans [or yoga pants in my case]. Seems like yesterday I was just planning his first birthday pizza party. I tried thinking of a catchy title for Joey’s third birthday post, such as his top 3 favorite foods. But there’s not much I can say about blue gummy fish, grilled cheese, and smoothies. I considered talking about my now threenager [a three-year-old that acts like a teenager], but when Joey lashes out with a teen-like tude, 20 minutes later he’s giving me hugs and saying he’s sorry. Instead, I’ve put together some thoughts about a word or phrase that starts with the letter of his name, J-O-E-Y. He and Anthony love spelling Joey [J-O-E-Y], and it’s really cute to see them try and spell Anthony’s name too!
A lot has happened in Joey’s 3 short years of life. He’s become a big brother twice [to Anthony and Lily], he’s moved rooms and acquired a roommate in his little bro, and now, he’s stopped napping. I think that’s harder on Mom than him! While there’s much more to share about my threenager, here are some J-O-E-Y highlights! And if you see Joe be sure to wish my guy a happy birthday!
J-ust like Daddy. Not only does he look like Ted, he acts like him too! He’s Dad’s mini-me, from his habit of leaving a few pieces of food on his plate and declaring, “I’m done!” to his love of swimming, Mario and Luigi, and most importantly, PIZZA. If you know my husband, you know there’s not much that comes between him and a slice of pizza.
O-bservant. Boy is Joey observant. From the moment he was born he’s been my watcher—- then a doer. He doesn’t dive right in, which some would consider him being timid. But I think it’s smart. His brother on the other hand will be the one we find climbing our roof someday! Ummm and I hate to admit this but in a recent Michigan State University football loss, Mom used a few bad words [forgetting my sidekick was on the couch next to me] and Joey very calmly REPEATED those words. That’s considered observant, right?!
t-E-nder: I had a hard time finding E words that described Joey and I needed something that encompassed all things caring, affectionate, kind-hearted, and tender. Seriously, he’s my softie. He loves hugs from Mom and Dad, he’s always looking out for his little bro to make sure Anthony is included, and you know what else?! He loves senior citizens. For some reason he takes to old people! He waves and says hello, shakes hands, and of course, gives his little shy-guy grin when a senior looks his way or engages with him. Not only does it make my day, but I know it makes their day too!
sh-Y: Ok, I told myself I should find another word besides shy to describe my bud. But the truth is I would be lying if I didn’t include this one. Shy isn’t a bad thing— it’s his thing. Again I think it goes back to him being observant and cautious. I also know that behind his shy persona is a sense of confidence that just takes some warming up. Anyone who knows Joey loves him, and appreciates this “softness” about him. Just don’t get between him and a blue gummy fish, you’ll see a whole new spirit come alive!
There’s no one in this world like my Joey. In fact, when he was born the pediatrician advised me to be careful of those oh-so-famous motherhood comparisons involving our children and their milestones. “There’s only one Joey Serbinski in this world. Why would you want him to be like anyone else?” I think of that moment [day 2 of his life in the hospital] and almost always shed a tear.
So guys, just like that I have a three-year-old. And just like that I’m already missing the baby phase of my first baby. Someone please remind me of this when I’m looking half asleep because of Joey’s baby sister…. Cue Mariah Carey’s song— he’ll always be my baby!!! Next up for my big three-year-old: potty training!!!
