Woo's your daddy: A moment of reflection

It's been quite a while since Jason or I have posted anything that I would call meaningful. I think life has been so busy we have put our blog posting on the back burner. But, as I was talking to my Mom the other day, telling her funny stories of the latest and greatest of Carson, she reminded me that I need to be documenting the little things. And I want to be able to look back and remember those moments, because they truly make me happy. And since my memory is already getting fuzzy from a few years back, I can only imagine my memory 5 years from now. Thanks Mom for the reminder. Here goes...

I think the most simple way to put Carson's current phase is "joy and happiness". I know a lot of toddlers are hitting their stride in the terrible two's (and I thought for a moment we were headed down that path) but Carson seems to be avoiding most of that for now. His temperament is silly, happy, thoughtful, kind and generous. I know, lots of big words for a 2 year old, but I think they are really fitting. He does have his moments of cranky and stubborn, but those are overshadowed by the fun moments.

Tuesday - Friday he hangs with his girl Emma, and always shares his toys, crayons, gives her kisses when she's sad, pets her hair to show he loves her, and protects her when others get too close to her. I think it's pretty sweet that he's already protecting his "turf".

He also likes to make his Mommy and Daddy laugh. Jason took his shoes and socks off one night, revealing some pretty stinky feet and toes. Joking around, and quoting one of Carson's favorite Mo Willems books, Jason gave Carson an "EEEEWWWW, YUCK!!!" which Carson thought was hilarious. Now, Carson will stick his feet in our faces so we smell them, waiting for an "EEEWW" or "YUCK" and then giggles incessantly. I can't help it, it cracks me up every time.

And I also feel pretty lucky that even though Carson loves his trucks, he loves reading even more. No joke, he will bring Jason and me at least 10 books a day to read, not even counting his "get ready for bed" reading routine. He knows the stories, gets so excited when he knows what's coming next, and even mouths the words as we read them. All I can do is pray this phase continues for a long time.

And thankfully, he's still in his "I love Mommy" and "Let's give kisses" phase. In Carson's mind, Mom rocks and he showers me with kisses all the time. It melts my heart every time. Sometimes I wonder how it could get better, then I remind myself every day gets better than the last. I feel so lucky to have our miracle boy, a truly amazing husband, and a wonderful and supportive family and group of friends.

And, looking forward to the future, I can only imagine what the next year will bring. Likely many more milestones and I hope his personality just grows bigger. I love our sweet little boy more than words can say. Happy new year and lots of love to our family and friends.