Day 141

Today is Giovanni's 3rd birthday, so today I am absolutely thankful for my crazy little boy.  He definitely keeps me on my toes and has been a tiny thorn in my side since before he was even born.  He still rarely sleeps through the night, he throws amazing tantrums, he can pierce your eardrums with his scream, and he bites and headbutts like a street fighter.  He also has the cutest laugh, he loves to cuddle and give kisses, he is funny, and he is one of the smartest kids I've ever known.  I love watching him grow up into this beautiful little boy even if he is a tough one to handle sometimes.  He is STUBBORN, but I am content in the fact that I know he will never be talked into doing anything that he doesn't want to do.  Peer pressure will have nothing on him.  He marches to the beat of his own drum, and is perfectly content with that.  However, he is also the perfect little mimic and loves to repeat what people say, and copy whatever his brother does.  I love my unique little Giovanni so much - even if he is going to be the one to eventually break me.  I couldn't imagine our family without him.  He is this amazing dichotomy of vinegar and sugar.  One minute he is trying your patience, the next he is making you laugh.  However, as much as he makes me want to pull out my hair sometimes, I still love spending time with just him.  He is so sweet and smart and I am happy I got to go shopping today with just him.  He was such a good helper, looking for things on our list, counting off numbers and reading letters off the signs.  He kept waving at people and saying hi - the older he gets and the more he talks, the more he likes interacting with people.  Giovanni, you are one of the most amazing little people I know.  Even though you are constantly pushing my buttons, I can't imagine you being any different.  I love you so much, and don't want you to ever lose that fire that makes you, you.  You are a special and amazing little boy and every day I am so grateful that you call me Mommy.  (Although I did liked it more when you call me Mama' - with an accent.  It made me feel sophisticated and a little European.)  I love you, Giovanni, and I thank God for giving you to me every single day.  Happy birthday, my little monkey!