Snips, Snails, and Puppy Dog Tails

Here's a poem a found the other day (author is unknown):

Little Boys

Little boys come in all shapes and sizes,

Shy and adventurous, full of surprises,

With misshapen halos and mischievous grins,

Small dirty faces, and sweet, sticky chins.

They'll keep you so busy, and yet all the while

Nothing can brighten the world like their smile.

And no greater treasure has brought homes more joy

Than a curious, active, and lovable boy!

Now I know that this poem is pretty stereotypical of boys....but for my boys, it's not just a stereotype.  It's true!  Especially for my Jacob.

This kid cracks me up.  He keeps me on my toes...day in and day out.  He tests my patience...every single day.  He knows what buttons to push....and doesn't hesitate to push them.  He's not afraid of anything, really (except maybe the occasional dog).  This kid is 100%, certifiable, undeniably ALL boy.  ALL BOY!!!! 

He throws caution to the wind.  Leaps before he looks.  Speaks before he thinks. 

Playing any kind of ball is his passion.  As long as he has someone to play with (preferably his older brother), he could stay outside all day...with no need to come in whatsoever.  He loves cars.  Has energy that knows no bounds.  Spends hours playing with animals.  Has discovered his newfound passion of building with blocks.  Thinks it's funny to hide in places where it takes Mommy 30 minutes of panic and sheer terror to find him.  Doesn't hesitate to leave the house and walk to the church (which is just down the alley from the house...but NOT ok for a four year old to do by himself in this day and age) by himself without letting Mommy know where he's going.  Engages in all sorts of sword fights with anyone and everyone who battles back (and sometimes even if they don't).  Enjoys wrestling with Daddy or Papa or any other man who can tolerate his punches and kicks in totally inappropriate places. 

And with all of those "manly, boyish" traits and passions, he also has a softer side.  He loves to have his back and his tummy rubbed.  Is inseparable from his "duckie"...a blanket he has loved since he was a few months old.  Still sucks his thumb....we're working on this, but not having very much luck....however, he usually only does it when he is tired or upset.  He is fascinated with rubbing Mommy's feet (and you'll hear no complaints from Mommy).  Insists that Daddy always says "bye" and gives hugs and kisses before going to work (and should Daddy forget, Jacob is not easily consolable).

The things he says are absolutely hysterical.  Things you wouldn't expect a four year old to say....but he never ceases to surprise us.  He's stubborn, hard-headed, defiant, frustrating, king of time-outs, boundary-testing...loving, lovable, caring, sensitive all at the same time. 

He is our Jacob and adds such spice and humor to each and every day.  This fun-loving, carefree 4 year old is so different from the other three...but we wouldn't have it any other way.  We're so grateful this "surprise" that God blessed us with four years ago is ours and that we get to experience his four year old personality everyday.