Uno!

I can't believe that this bright shiny boy has made it around the sun one year already! He has been so much fun for all of us as we celebrate his milestones and get to know his unfolding personality each day.

This month I feel like we've seen him grow and change in great bounding leaps. He suddenly began waving and using sign language. Instead of just taking things out he began to put things away. He is more aware of routines, relationships, and how to express his needs and wants. He has developed a pterodactyl scream which is a great deal louder than his brother's was at this age. His walking is speeding up, his cheeks are slimming, his appetite is enormous, and his need to explore (aka get into everything) is endless. He is a very busy person!

We've been reminiscing too about this time last year as we were preparing for his birth. I reminded Will that not only was Jasper born on Cinco de Mayo (many great colorful parties to come!) but it is also International Day of the Midwife. This means that he will forever be celebrating his birth alongside the wonderful work of his talented midwife, Heather. As Will put it today, "She soothed you, Mom, while you were giving birth."

So today marks the beginning of what many would consider the most difficult time of parenting-- as these littles exert their power and relative independence upon the world. For many it now begins a game of survival both as a parent to endure it but also to assure that our children survive the often crazy things they do (running into the street, eating small objects from the floor, etc.). But it is also just about the cutest couple of years you ever see and I plan to document as much of it as I can. I have enough distance with a six year old that I definitely know these days are going to go by fast. Soon, these pudgy little wrists will make way for lanky legs, missing teeth, dirty fingernails, and sweaty feet.

Happy happy birthday little man. We are so glad you joined our family!