My sweet Owen,
Today we celebrate two years with you. And for your birthday, you’re not only getting all our love and a few special presents, but also a new home and all of your things back. You’re welcome. 🙂
We don’t really remember what life was like before you. That’s okay. We slept in on the weekends, sometimes we stayed out way past bedtime, sat on the couch all day binge watching Netflix, and we planned our trips around the best restaurants rather than the best zoos. Life wasn’t nearly as beautiful as it is now. You came into our lives and changed everything truly for the better.
From the day you were born you have challenged me. It is unbelievable how much you inspire me every day, and in so many ways. Your curiosity, innocence and quest for learning amaze me. Your determination to master every skill makes every day challenging, but so very blissful.
Seeing your dad become your father on this day two years ago is a moment in my life I will always cherish. He didn’t pass out in the delivery room; he stood by me, holding my hand and welcomed you into the world with me. He’s a rad dad. He schedules Family Fun Days into his busy work schedule. He explains the world to you and teaches you to calmly handle difficult situations, to be optimistic, and to always see the best in people. He takes you on adventures and creates memories that you will always remember.
Because of you, I’ve fallen in love with your dad all over again and again. He’s an amazing father, husband, friend, pilot, and such an incredible role model for you. I thank God for him every day, we are so blessed to have him.
A year ago, you were taking wobbly little steps holding our hands, obsessing over wheels, and pushing your gator cart all over the house. Today you run faster than I can keep up and somewhere along the way, your unrecognizable jabber turned into real words. You are very clear about what you and do not want. And while you have your set of preferences, you’re open to and curious about discovering the world around you. I pray that you never loose this. Stay true to yourself.
You are so affectionate. You love random cuddles throughout the day and insist on falling asleep in my arms for naps and bedtime. The infamous toddler tantrums are becoming far and few between simply because we’re learning your language, rhythm, and schedule. Sometimes you get upset and release your frustration, but it doesn’t last long. I can’t explain these things because life is complicated that way, but usually an apology and a cuddle can make everything better.
You love animals and know the sound of just about every one of them. Dogs and ducks are your favorite. You’re absolutely crazy about everything and anything related to transportation vehicles – big trucks, construction equipment, tractors, trains, bicycles, boats, cars, and airplanes.
Becoming a mother, your mother, has taught me so much about everything, but especially about patience and love in the most pure and honest form.
& also what three times reheated coffee tastes like.
All I ever wanted was to experience that all-encompassing, unconditional love that only small children seem to be able to project. In my two years with you, I’ve experienced that love many times over. I relish your full-body hugs, being invited into all of your toddler adventures, and knowing that I can make anything better with a hug and kiss. All of these moments, though, come at a cost. I am guilty of sometimes feeling irritated when you pull at me from all sides for attention. But even then, I never take those times of togetherness for granted. I know this time is special and it is never going to come back.