For Xavier At 4

This is late. If you’ve been paying attention you would know that certain life events have come in the way of having this written, let alone posted, in time for his actual birthday.

xavier at 4 01It’s been a heck of a year. You were 3 years old when you went on an international, even inter-continental, trip to Ireland. And you weren’t phased by any of it. As a matter of fact, you probably had the best vacation of any of us. You were happy to tromp around all over the island, sit in the car for the hour-plus long drives each way to wherever the day took us.

That positive attitude will serve you well throughout your life.

2013 school first 01Starting preschool this year was also a joyous time for you. No trepidation, no worries, you just jumped right in and apparently do what you’re told, follow directions, help out and in general you’re a good student. All year we’ve been waiting for word of resistance on your part to the school routine, but none came.

Each day your run to school, eager to start the day. Quite often you skip home, happy to have lunch and lately there has been some resistance to going down for afternoon nap, but it’s pretty obvious that you still need it as most of the time you actually do fall asleep.

xavier at 4 03Perhaps most surprising however is your reaction to Tevye being born. You really seem to enjoy being a big brother. You’ve cried when you didn’t get a turn to hold him. You aren’t phased when he cries. You want to see him and almost every day you wish to give him a hug and kiss good night. This is incredibly endearing and sweet.

One problem you are experiencing however does give us pause. You can be a bit of a bully to your siblings. You want to take things out of peoples hands and are generally impatient. Some of this is your age which we understand. Some of this, however, isn’t, and causes some concern. Hopefully (and with our guidance) you’ll grow out of this “phase” soon.

In general you’re a very sweet boy and a joy to have. We love you very much and look forward to more years of growth with you.