tiernan turns three

my youngest is a preschooler. i love him. i love the way he fits into our family. we weren't expecting him to join our family when he did. it wasn't quite my plan to have the second and the third 19 months apart. but a few minutes on my knees after a saw that famous pink line and i knew this was heavenly father's timing and the babe on the way would bless our lives in so many ways. i was scared but sure. 

when i look back on the last three years since he was born i see the wisdom of heavenly father's timing. his name is gaelic and means "little chief or little lord."  he surely is the little chief of our tribe of boys. he has kind of held us together with is peaceful ways and sunny personality.  he is at his best when playing the fierce warrior, grunting, growling, and wrestling. loves cars, especially lightening mcqueen and company. he is tender and cuddly even at three, stopping by for quick hugs and kisses between growls.

the other day i asked him if he was from boston with that sweet little accent of broad a's and misplaced r's. he replied "yes, i am from boston." "really, i thought you were from alaska," i said. "nope, boston," he stated.  well, that explains it then. i love listening to him talk. it makes me smile every time. 

 (at breakfast the next day, sporting his new gear)

the birthday celebration started off with a tradition i started this year: a red balloon and a couple small gifts to wake up to.  it has become a favorite part of our birthday celebrations in no time. then out to dinner that evening to serranos mexican grill(tiernan's choice), a favorite local spot for high quality authentic mexican food. papa wes was able to join us for chips and salsa and burritos. tiernan also requested cupcakes instead of a big cake and we loved watching him blow out the candles. his new trike was exciting for a few minutes until he opened up the helmet and matching knee pads.  he insists on wearing them all. the. time.  i love that about this little preschooler. happy birthday tiernan-bird!