dear riley, today you are 3

Today is a big day in world history - it's been eleven years since the events of 9/11 rocked the world.

Not many people know that we chose this date for you.

We weren't sure about giving a baby such a big date, but in the end felt you could carry it.

And you have.

You are an amazing little boy, who is quiet and shy and reserved until ready to let others in.

You love your brother and sisters and cousins and miss Chloe every day.

The rubbish truck is the most important part of your Friday mornings, after walking the kids to school.

You often step on Amy's tail, but run quickly the second she growls at you, and say sorry over and over again.

The trampoline is the best weekend fun, you end up in tears if the other kids won't play with you.

You go to daycare two days a week, and we don't have any more tears. You were so excited that your friends had cake with you yesterday, and sang happy birthday!

You've mostly got toilet training figured out.

You've been asking for "buzz life" [Buzz Lightyear from Toy Story] for months for your birthday.

You love watching Tom & Jerry and Donald Duck on youtube.

You are loved by all of us.

Happy birthday, little man!