Twin boys. Toddler daughter. Hospital Tech Support. Writer. Runner. Gamer. Creating in public again.*

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Rose

The Library

Rose’s favorite daddy-daughter dates are at the libraries. We try to go once or twice a week. To play. To build in the sensory room. To look at all the Amiibos near the front entrance. To use the elevator. To walk around. To observe. To think. To have a conversation. To check out books.

We found the book adaptation of My Neighbor Totoro and she learned about the manga-style reading that’s opposite of our books. It’s her first book that she flipped through that was right to left.

As we were leaving the second floor, I noticed a huge puzzle on a table that someone was putting together. Bigger than anything she ever built.

“Look, there’s a big puzzle we could make. Maybe one day we can do a puzzle here,” I said.

“Do you have enough energy for that?” Rose asked.

“No.”

“Me either.”

Rose and Her Backpack

I guess my packing skills have rubbed off on Rose. At three years old, she loves packing her backpack, for pretend or when going somewhere. She spent the last two days prepping her backpack for today’s visit to her cousin’s house. Her bag was ready before she knew for sure she was even going there. The anticipation was unmatched.

I had to pull seven of the ten books out to help her, because she told me that bringing a second backpack would solve the problem. And even though it was too heavy for her, she said I could carry it in to help. That’s when I started recommending things she might not need.

A few other things she has: a water bottle on one side, and a cup on the other. A second pair of shoes, a few stuffed animals. Her glasses, and her Switch. Packed all by herself.

Proud dad moment.

You’re Three

Dear Rose,

You’re turning three today, and I wanted to write you a letter like I did last year, simply to create a snapshot of how you’re processing the world at three. Just like I mentioned last year, time is moving way too fast, and as I try to balance the busyness of life, staying present with you is always at the top of my mind. I don’t want to miss a single moment of you growing up.

You started school recently, and I told you that I’d be sad now that you’re away from home, but you tried to comfort me by saying, “Don’t worry Dad, Mom will protect you.” These are the little sentences you bless me with throughout the week. Like when your brother got in the car recently, and right away, you asked him, “Isaac, how’s your day going?” And after he responded, you replied, “Well, mine is going great.”

I’m constantly fascinated by your mind and how much you’re learning already. You like dancing now, and putting puzzles together. You know all the days of the week, and you’re starting to learn time. Lately you’ve been randomly telling me you’d like a hug. Or as you’re falling asleep, you ask if I can rub your back.

Before each meal, you lead in prayer, even if you’re the only one at the table. It’s the same prayer each meal: “Dear Jesus, thank you for this food. Thank you for mommy and daddy, Isaac and Rose, and all the people. Keep us safe, in your name we pray. Amen.”

This is just a glimpse of my days with you, and there’s not enough words to describe how special all of this feels.

Happy Birthday.