the joy of a new toy

Jackson just pulled out his new Pinocchio drummer boy that he got from Aunt Lauraine for his birthday. He must really like the sound it makes on the wooden floor, because when he gets to the rug, he picks it up, crosses it, then puts the toy down when he gets to the wood floor again. Luckily we don't have any downstairs neighbors at the moment.

This pics are from a few weeks ago when he gleefully opened his presents.

Thank you, Aunt Lauraine!

belated birthday pics

Bebe got Jackson a Thomas the Train birthday cake - big hit! He loved it so much. How do we know? Because he started to cry when Auntie Nikki started to cut it.

happy birthday, baby!

Dear Jackson,

Two years ago you came into our lives and changed it forever for the better.

This past year feels like a whirlwind of watching you grow, filled with firsts. It gives me so much joy to look back and see what you've accomplished, and how you're really coming into your own.

That first year I could just sit there and look at you in wonder. This past year I haven't been able to sit as much, but I still look at you in wonder. I still can't believe how much love I have in my heart for you. I still think you are the cutest baby ever. But recently, I've been seeing a little boy in you, even though part of me wants to deny it.

And now that baby is due in 6 weeks, I wanted to tell you how special this time was, just you and me, how lucky I am to have had these two years with you, and how I will always look back on this time with so much joy and love for you.

Happy 2nd birthday, baby! We love you so very very much.

Love,
Mama

HAPPY 2nd BIRTHDAY, LITTLE BUDDY!

Jackson, we had such a wonderful birthday weekend I don't even know where to start. I'm going to post pictures soon, but in the meantime, I wanted to wish you the happiest, funnest, bounciest birthday ever.

We love you so very much and can't wait to see what this year brings for you!

thank you Mimi & Nonno!

Jackson got an awesome Radio Flyer scooter, along with Thomas the Train helmet and knee pads. I think he's more psyched about the helmet and knee pads,  but he'll eventually love the scooter too. What gave us that impression? When he tried to take the helmet and knee pads to bed with him tonight. 

Thank you Mimi & Nonno for such great birthday presents!

party!

The party was fantastic! We had so much fun outside, blowing bubbles, jumping on the trampoline, eating, drinking, singing Happy Birthday, eating cake and opening presents.

Jackson was deliriously tired & happy, especially since, of course, he didn't take a nap before the party.

We're so lucky to have so many good friends to celebrate with us.

ps I made coleslaw and bean & corn salad. Yum. The bean salad calls for 1/3 cup sugar in the dressing but next time I will only use about 2 tablespoons.