Birthday Boy

Dear Hudson,

Today you turned two years old, and as I watched your sweet, giddy excitement grow as you waited for your party guests to arrive, it struck me. Like a bolt of lightning. You are no longer my baby. You are growing up, beautifully. In fact, you are becoming such a strong, intelligent young man that my heart nearly bursts with pride in you. Oh, Hudson, will you ever know how much it means to me to witness your quick grin, that light of understanding in your big, brown eyes, your smoldering sense of humor?

You delight me. Every single day.

This year, on your birthday, you fully understood what it meant. That you are special. That you are to be celebrated. That you are a unique person, a valid part of our family. I'm quite certain you made personal contact with each person who came to spend time with you. Amidst your happy dances, your giggles, your clapping, you gave me a glimpse of the good man you will become.

Indeed, your personality was well-represented by your gifts. You have a solid love of numbers; you count daily and identify numbers everywhere we go. Movement is second nature to you. You like to run, jump, climb, throw, dance, and (thankfully) snuggle. Your inner sweetness has never abated, and although your kisses are rare, you still give the best ones. Direct eye contact, both hands on my face, a sweet smile as you lean into me. Your sister is still your role model; already you've learned so much from her, and like a sponge you simply wait to soak up more.

My little man, you are everything a little boy should be. And more. Yes, you have a dominant stubborn streak. You can be a perfectionist. When your emotions run high and words are not enough, you have a shriek that could peel paint. And yet? I can't help but love you even more for those quirks.

You love to read books, sing songs, and watch Bubble Guppies, Team Umizoomi, and The Wiggles. For a young child, you have a surprising interest in family photographs. Puzzles and coloring are favorite pasttimes. Every time you see an animal, you want to bring it home.

God truly blessed us when he sent us our Hudson Kayo.

Happy birthday, Bub!
All my love,

Mommy