A Daddy Looks at Three

September 8th, 2005.   I think this was the last euphoric day of my life.  There might have been one or two in the ensuing months, but they were probably aftershocks of that first moment when I took you in my arms and said your name slowly and deliberately to you for the first time.  Euphoria.  I was vaguely aware of the word before, but never really felt it coursing through my veins as it did in that moment. I was instantly addicted and began to look for opportunities to tie off again.  There would be the announcements (check) the pictures (check) the feedback from his name (check) the first enounters with friends and family (check and check) and just wait until the first birthday.... Well, it was a good run for almost a year.  On one of these next birthdays, I'll do my best to answer your questions.  At this point, I don't see any behind your beautifully bright eyes, and I praise God for that.  Much further down the road, Daddy will share with you the wisdom gained from these dark times.  For now the lessons continue, as do I, and only by God's grace is this even possible.   A few things of note on your 3rd birthday - you went diaper free this spring; no more bottle - and you never needed a pacifier; you've only had one haircut so far, and you need another; you shot past the yardstick and my best guess is you're just about 3'4"; oatmeal (eatmeal, as you call it) is your favorite breakfast; blueberry pancakes is not (what's up with that?);  you love mommy and daddy, titi b, nana, gandpepop, and Jesus.  We all love you, too. Happy birthday, Li'l GUN.  Thanks for making me your daddy. GDAD