Two.

Dear Maverick,

Today you are TWO!  I feel like I blinked and suddenly you went from my newborn baby boy to a toddler -- no, a little boy! --  running around like a wild man wherever you go!

I am SO proud of you, Maverick.  You are happy, smart, spirited, and FULL of joy.  You also have the biggest heart, and care so much for others.  It isn't unusual to hear you praying during the day, and your prayers are simply the best: "Amen, Jesus. Amen, Jesus. Amen, Jesus!" 

Daddy and I were recently talking about your love language, and I think your love language is found in quality time.  You like to show off, always making sure we're watching you do your tricks, and you simply like to spend time with others.  

You started preschool this week, and you entered that school with a confidence well beyond your two years!  You can hang with the big kids and you care for the "little kids" (your words, ha!).  You are a boy who finds a friend wherever you go.

At two, here are some of your favorite things.

1.  Sports.  You love football, basketball, and golf, but BASEBALL is definitely your FAVORITE.  Dude, you are one heck of an athlete!  You've got a great baseball swing and you love to practice hitting home runs!

2.  Baseball Guys.  Your daddy recently opened his mint condition collector's edition "Starting Lineup" baseball guys -- according to your daddy, they're worth millions -- but he loves you and Ryker so much he let you open them!  You picked Lou Gehrig, a fitting choice!

3.  Animals.  You love ALL the animals we see, and your bed is full of stuffed animals -- each one very special to you.  You have a teddy bear that you've had since you were a baby, and you like to make sure that bear is close to you every night  Some day I think you would like a puppy, but we'll have to work on your daddy for that one!

4.  Working.  Mav-man, you are a boy who loves hard work.  If you and Ryker are playing and Mommy or Daddy starts working on a project, you like to jump right in to the project!  This is why you got a tool set for your birthday...I know you've been wanting your own hammer for a while!

5.  Ryker.  Out of all of your favorites, Ryker is definitely on the top of your list.  You two boys have the sweetest friendship and love for one another, and it shines on a daily basis.  You are an AWESOME brother for Ryker, and have supported him at his appointments and therapy sessions since we brought you home from the hospital.  When you're with Ryker, you are always cheering him on with a loud, "YAY RYKER!"  Shouted in the sweetest voice I've ever heard.  You help make Ryker stronger!

Maverick, you make me SO proud and I am so happy God chose me to be your mom.  Thank you for filling these past two years with more love than I could ever imagine!

Happy birthday, Mav-Man!

Love,

Mama