Before You Were Two

While for many parents the first birthday is an emotional event that many have a hard time accepting, I find I am having more heartache over Jackson's upcoming second birthday. It's just around the corner and I'm not quite ready to face the fact that he will be two.

I guess because "one" is closer to baby.

"One" was still little. Singular. Just still barely here.

For Jackson's first birthday, we had a very big get together, grilled outside and enjoyed the pool.

But two.

Two is serious. Two is a kid. Momentous.

Two has been around now. Familiar with the territory. Sophomoric.

Two is major. Tries to boss you around now that it has gotten comfortable with the campus layout.

I'm conflicted.

Because two is also funny. Two is so quick. So willing to learn. Two is adorable.

I always think "this is my favorite phase." But I find myself thinking that at every new phase.

Each stage is my favorite.

As we near the eve of his second birthday, I am once again blown away by all that he has accomplished in one year.

Before you were two...

...you sang your ABCs.

...you told us you loved us.

...you learned your shapes.

...you fell in love with the ocean.

...you learned your colors.

...you became a regular traveler.

...you rode a carousel.
...you count your numbers.

...you showed off your jumping, kicking and tumbling skills.

...you tormented us with your first curse word.

...you had tubes put in again and adenoids removed.

...you regularly do your chores.
...you use the potty.
...you put your dishes in the sink.
...you strummed your guitar.
...you were best friends and on a first name basis with every neighbor.
...you repeat every word.
...you continue to amaze us. Every day.