Dear Max,

Today you are 3 - happy birthday!

This year has flown by so quickly - everyone says that I know, but I’m sure the years are just speeding up with each one you are with us. But that just sums you up at the moment really - you’re a little whirlwind!

It’s been amazing to watch your personality develop more and more over this last year. You’re still that child of extremes that I wrote in your letter last year - either you’re super happy or really angry and upset - but alongside that has emerged a kindness and sensitivity that I’m so proud of.

Whereas last year you were struggling with sharing and controlling your emotions around that, you’re now happy to share (most of the time!), and best of friends with your cousin. You’re so sensitive to when other’s might be sad or upset and always want to cheer them up with a cuddle or by being silly. You’ll fling your arms around my neck and say “Mummy my best friend!” and I can feel my heart about to burst with love for you. You have such a great sense of humour and love nothing more than playing a joke on Mummy and Daddy - your current favourite is to hide under the duvet at bedtime (shouting “hide, hide”, which may be a subtle clue as to where you’re hiding!)

You continue to surprise and amaze me every single day. All the things I worry about you coping with you take in your stride - learning to speak, moving up to pre-school, learning you’re having a little brother - all of it you’ve handled better than I ever expected. I can see you turning into a little boy before my eyes - so much of your cautiousness is dropping away, and I can see the joy that you’ve always had start to come through more and more.

I can’t wait to see what an amazing big brother you’re going to be - your little brother is so lucky to have you on his team!

Happy 3rd birthday little guy xx