Thirty Months.

It was 30 months ago today that you came bolting into our lives. You were early and made your way very quickly. There was no slowing you down even then. In one breath, I can't believe how fast time is going, and in the other, I can't remember much of life before you.

Making cookies.

Your exuberance for life is inspiring. You truly love life in a way that many people can only hope for. You make everyone believe that your legs were made for running, your voice was made for talking (loudly!), your smile was made for loving.

Daddy and H at the Fire Station.

As much of a mama's boy that you are, your daddy is still a favorite too. Daddy's play different than Mama's. Rougher, tougher and your laugh when you're with dad is so deep, so real, so good. You and Daddy have started a Dad and Me class on Wednesday nights and you love sharing your school with your dad. You are all about school. You love ECFE with mom and every time we drive by you squeal; "My School!"

Driving the fire truck.

I could tell you all the things I think of you, but most go without saying. I think you're smart, and wonderful and amazing and all the things good mothers say about their little ones. But most of all, you are you. Oh yes some days you are silly and sassy and go on misbehaving like there is no tomorrow, that's only normal. Regardless of the day we're having, I can't help but count you as a blessing.

T, H and M waiting for me in the driveway to walk to the bus stop. They had no idea I even snapped this shot.

Your brother and sister are still your heros. Oh how you love them. Has there ever been a boy who looked up to his siblings as much as you?

H and Kali at the Apple Orchard.

And friends. You have discovered the world of friends. And any child between the age of 1-5 is considered your friend. Especially if they are wearing a Lightning McQueen shirt. There is something about the way that you love other people, regardless of who they are or what they are about and embrace the possible friendships.

Lately, I've been feeling this bittersweet tenderness towards you. I know that soon there will be another little one here and that will make you grow up even more overnight. I know that the newest babe will fit in just fine and we'll love him/her tremendously and you'll make a great big brother, but I can't help but worrying how it will change things for you and me and just how you'll like sharing me.

So forgive me for sometimes wanting to hold you just a while longer, for wanting more than one of your kisses and for lingering and trying to savor our time, it's just that there are changes looming.

I know you'll take it all in stride, much like you already do.

So to my thirty month old, my two and a half year old, keep being the little boy you are. Keep living life to extremes and teaching me how to be the mother I'd like to be. Remind us all of what's important and keep loving people with no regard. You are yourself, and no one else.

I've used this quote before, but I can't help but use it again.

....what do we teach our children? We teach them that two and two make four, and that Paris is the capital of France. When will we also teach them what they are? We should say to each of them: Do you know what you are? You are a marvel. You are unique. In all the years that have passed, there has never been another child like you. Your legs, your arms, your clever fingers, the way you
move.You may become a Shakespeare, a Michaelangelo, a Beethoven. You have the capacity for anything. Yes, you are a marvel.... Pablo Casals

Happy 30 months, little marvel.