art jess and jordy There have been many times where my wife says that our two daughters are mini versions of myself. I am with them all day and they pick up my slang and sense of humor. Still I think that there are some traits that you can tell run deep in their DNA that comes from me. My youngest daughter Jordan turns three this week and I have been reflecting on the blessing my wife and I received three years ago. I see many things that she gets from me. Some are good and some are not so good.

Back in the day when I was growing up trying to be the class clown or funny guy I would test the patience of many people. From teachers to my sisters to my parents I would love to push buttons. I have been called “The Instigator” by one teacher in eighth grade.

I know that in a few years I might be getting a call from one of Jordan’s teacher where the same moniker of “The Instigator” could be used for her. On occasion I have dubbed her my little Velociraptor since she knows how and when to strike. My wife and I will often joke that she will be the one who climbs out of her bedroom window at night to hang out with her friends.

All joking aside I am so proud of my lil raptor. She is very smart and I am so thankful of the time that I have had with her being the stay at home dad. While Lily was at school, Jordan and I would have some great one on one time. Not only has Jordan taught me to be a more patient parent, but she has opened up my eyes to so many things.

I have learned that each of my children are unique and different. I had to use a different approach when I was teaching Jordan things that I taught Lily. Whether it would be the alphabet, numbers, or colors, Jordan let me know that everyone’s style of learning is different. This is a great lesson to learn in life. You get to realize that everyone thinks and acts differently and those differences make the world a very cool and unique place.

I love the way Jordan wants to snuggle up with me for a few minutes after she gets up from a nap. She likes to make funny faces and copies my sound effects and even makes some of her own to make me laugh, which she always does.

These three years have gone by so fast. This September she will start going to preschool. I will still have a few days where she and I get one on one time. Those days I will try to cherish more than ever since soon she will be in kindergarten and that time will be gone.

So with that said I wanted to wish you a happy birthday Jordy. I love ya!