February 4, 2011

To Max and Tyler on your 3rd birthday (a few days late...),

Three years old?!?! It seems like I say this for every major milestone, but I really can't believe my little babies are three. You two are still the best of friends and are becoming little men right before our eyes. You both talk all the time and have quite a sense of humor - constantly making each other laugh and sometimes taking us by surprise with your witty comments. You both have incredible memories too (you get that from your dad, that's for sure). If you hear or see something just one time, you will undoubtedly reference it again at some point... sometimes several months later.

You are both starting to understand what it means to be twins, and you've even played a few tricks already (trying to tell some of my friends that you were each the other person). We recently read a book with identical twins on the last page (Miss Nelson Has a Field Day) and you both looked at me and smiled when you noticed they looked alike. You both seem to be trying to find a balance between wanting to do everything together, while also asserting your individuality. You often get mad when the other does something differently than you (for example - if Max doesn't want to wear his hat but Tyler does, you try to get the other to do what you are doing). On the other hand, you've both starting declaring your favorites and identifying ways in which you're different. Max's favorite color is blue and Tyler's is green. Max loves Parmesan cheese with his pizza and Tyler does not. Etc, etc. You have always had differences in your personalities and preferences, but not until recently have you wanted to point them out. And I think that is just great. Being a twin will always play a big role in your life journeys, but your growth as individuals is what will really define you.

Tyler, my firstborn, you have been taking charge since you were born (actually since you were in the womb and tried to make your way out too early). You are quite a talker and your speech and pronunciation is impeccable. And you are so smart too. I read you a new book just two times last week and on the third time, I accidentally skipped a page. When we were done you took the book, skimmed through the pages, and handed me back the book saying, "You forgot this page, Mama." Not much gets past you, that's for sure! You are a stickler for rules and don't like messes. While you have the greatest laugh, you also know how to whine like the best of them. You haven't quite bought into the "Now that you're 3, you aren't allowed to whine anymore" bit, but I'm still hopeful. You are getting more fun every day and I can't wait to watch you continue to grow.

Max, my baby boy, you are so loving and such a funny guy. Although we've always called you the more laid-back child, you certainly have more energy and enthusiasm than we can keep up with these days. You have an obsession with chewing Tyler's blue doggy's nose, which is bizarre, but Tyler for some reason doesn't seem to mind. You are so smart and chatty and not a thing gets by you either. You have always been a cuddlebug and very loving to everyone. You are so sweet to Maisie and often get down by her bouncer and talk or sing or show her your toys. You love cars and trucks and you are quite the hoarder. You have a big school bus that you love to fill up with anything and everything and push around the house. I love spending so much time with you and can't wait to see what the future brings for you.

You are both such good boys and I am so proud of the little men you are becoming. Just promise not to grow up too fast, ok? Happy Birthday, my 3 year olds. We love you!

And Happy 6th Birthday (today) to Cousin Braeden! Thanks for being such a great nephew and for being the leader of the crazy cousin clan. We all love you!

Tyler (blue) and Max on their 3rd birthday! Click here for a trip down memory lane with their monthly chair pics.

They certainly know how to cheeeeeeese

Here are a few pics from their little birthday party. More pics to come!

Max (left) and Tyler with their vacuums from Nana and Grandpa

You can also read their 1st bday letter and 2nd bday letter.