Joe

 

 Sandwiched between two little ladies, one with a rather large personality and the other with attention-stealing cheeks, I feel that the little man is sometimes overlooked.  For the record, and I will completely own my strong motherly bias, he's quite a kid.  Having made it through a bit of a rough patch (turning three, the move, starting school, adjusting to a new house...), he is hitting his stride.  For those privileged to see, he demonstrates that he, too, has a personality worth noting and cheeks soft and round, with killer blue eyes to boot.  He is dramatic, with exaggerated facial expressions that make disciplining without laughter difficult.  When troubled or annoyed, he can produce without pause the largest crocodile tears, shutting tight his large baby blues in such a way that again makes it difficult to console without laughing.  Just when you think you have him figured out, he'll surprise you.  His unpredictability, a quality both equally endearing and challenging.  His tender heart and fragility is contrasted by his physical strength.  With legs thick, feet wide, and solid frame, I'm finding it increasingly difficult to scoop up my little man.  He is easily frustrated, but strives for independence.  He is quick to entertain, finding humor in unexpected moments.  His voice, soft and melodic, in one breath produces the sweetest of songs and in the other screams, abrasive and strong.  He is animated and expressive, using his full body to tell stories.  He absolutely delights in receiving positive feedback, often giving an exaggerated thumbs up in the midst of affirmations. He appreciates thoughtfulness, and will often tell me, "Mommy, you're the best!"  He is growing in creativity each day, loves to find his way into a lap for a good story, and is showing a growing interest in superheroes.  He is a concrete thinker, and processes information thoughtfully.  He has an eye for detail, and I'm often surprised by the things that catch his eye.  He loves bugs, and is always on the hunt for creepy spiders.  He is playful, yet cautious, appreciating the comforts of home tempered with small adventures.  He often asks adults to play with him, but what he really wants is for you to sit close, observe, affirm his choices and be entertained.  He continues to find comfort in his large blue blankie, and loves to look back at it as he drags it across the floor.  He is a true second born, looking to his older sister to guide and direct.  His identity defined so beautifully by his relationship with his sisters, admiring his Sissy and protecting his little Peanut, his true delight!  He continues to be my most loyal little man, and his proud Father's boy.