holiday scenes

My loves.

Gifting, and what I hope will be the future of something big...

Christmas morning.

The sleepy mama of a toddler who was up until 3am the night before. Enjoying our Christmas morning tradition.

the party

Last weekend Grandma threw a party for the new two year-old. Knowing our boy's love of balloons, Nate had the brilliant idea to do a balloon drop. I have never seen this boy so happy. The squeals of absolute joy were priceless and it was amazing to have all of his grandparents and close family there. So much love in one room. It was the best day of this little boy's life. And quite possibly mine, too!

All photos are by my talented brother-in-law, Andy Johanson. (Check out his work here.)

Last year, he was overwhelmed by the cupcake, the candle, and the singing. Remember this?...

December, 2012 - First Birthday

This year we spent a few weeks practicing blowing out candles while we sang 'Happy Birthday'. Nate baked him a special sourdough cupcake with homemade frosting (his first taste of chocolate!) and this year, he was ready!

It was a good day. Thank you to everyone who helped make it happen, especially Barb, Andy and Stephanie!

Some Zander memories...

7 days old

One year old

Happy 2 year-old

two years

“Through the blur, I wondered if I was alone or if other parents felt the same way I did - that everything involving our children was painful in some way. The emotions, whether they were joy, sorrow, love or pride, were so deep and sharp that in the end they left you raw, exposed and yes, in pain. The human heart was not designed to beat outside the human body and yet, each child represented just that - a parent's heart bared, beating forever outside its chest.”

― Debra Ginsberg

 

Zander, last week you completed your second trip around the sun. Two whole years. It's just amazing to watch you grow and for your daddy and I to grow with you, as parents. There are times I find myself still trying to figure out this new life with you and how to make it all work. Sometimes there's chaos. But then you take my hand in yours and lead me out of my world and into your world, where nothing else matters.

I will never forget the day you came into this world and how it changed me forever. Two years doesn't really seem that long, but already, I can't imagine life without you.

Happy Birthday, sweet boy.  

stocking up