birthday | two

Well, my munchkin is two. Time has passed quickly--too quickly. 

Maddux had a combined birthday party with his friend, Jacob.  They are only a day apart. Maddux is so lucky to have such a good, little friend and to be loved by his family. We ate some barbeque, opened presents,  played in bubbles and finished with cupcakes and ice cream. 

Maddux took most of his cues from Jacob until we brought out the cupcakes; he knew exactly what he wanted and dove right in.  He's definitely his mama's baby. 

I never knew happiness had a never-ending potential. I find myself feeling like he could never make me happier -- and then he does.  He fills me like nothing else can.  I still find myself watching him sleep during the night.  Sometimes I pick up and rock him.  His legs and feet dangle off the chair while his cheeks are smashed between my arm and chest.  His little mouth hangs wide open.  He's safe, and I want to keep him that way forever--right there in my arms where he can't be hurt.  Of course, I know that can't be the  case.  Eventually he'll know what it feels like to be left out, have a broken heart, or even be disliked [though I can't imagine why anyone would dislike my little one]. My heart wrenches when I think about him experiencing these painful feelings.  But, with these experiences comes growth, and in the end, that's truly what I want.  I want him to grow into a strong, honorable, and dedicated man [who still loves and admires his mother, of course].

apologies if this ends up side-ways...