Here Comes Three

With teething, toilet training and tantrums it doesn’t take much to know how the term “terrible two’s” got its name.


But by the time my third child went through this dreaded stage, God must have given me an extra dose of mercy. We really didn’t have any of the stereotypical situations. Her baby teeth coming in have never caused us any problems or late nights. She even got an A+ from the dentist on her first visit. She potty trained herself. (Because when would I have the time?) And her tantrum tendencies are usually a pouty face and sad puppy dog eyes. (Which, by the way, my young readers, will get you further than any public outburst of complaining ever will.)

Quite frankly she is a delight. When we were pregnant with her we struggled immensely with naming her. After many debates, discussions, and compromises we finally settled on the legal first name which both of our maternal grandmothers but neither of them use. (Seemed almost obvious really.) Then a dear friend suggested Joy as a middle name. We didn’t like it but looking back (if we had known then what we know now…) the adjective middle name fits her perfectly. She is our joy.

She helps in the garden. She wants to do dishes. She puts her shoes away without having to be told. She rarely complains. She obeys way more than her older counterparts ever did or do. When you ask her for a kiss she says, “Only if I can give you a kiss and a hug too.” She makes me smile. She makes everyone smile.

No, there was nothing “terrible” about her being two. But, I have been around enough children to know that the ”terrible two’s” are only followed by the “horrible three’s”. But maybe, just maybe, God will keep shining his light of mercy upon me and the coming year will be just as enjoyable as the past one was. History tells me it will be.

Happy Third Birthday, Elizabeth (Joy) Rose!! We love you very much. Thank you for making our lives as pleasant as they are. May your demeanor continue to develop as it is. You are a wonderful blessing.