May 10, 2004
Dear Grace,
Happy 2nd Birthday!
I realized that your first letter included more description of my feelings rather than recollections of your first year. From this birthday forward, I intend to tell YOU about YOU! While I haven’t been as diligent about recording your milestones, I certainly won’t forget May 24, 2003: the day you took your first unassisted step. You had been pulling yourself up and walking around furniture for quite some time, but while in Ron’s living room, you stood up and took a step or two on your own! Harry and I were on the marble floor with you and all of us shared in your excitement! I wonder what possessed you to take an unaided step that particular day? Was it the cool, smooth floor surface or maybe because Harry and I were there for you? I may never know but I do know that I shall always hope the excitement from attaining an accomplishment stays with you in whatever you choose. I enjoy the look of satisfaction on your beautiful face!
Your vocabulary has increased dramatically in the last year! A year ago, I remember you speaking just a few words, now you’re consistently putting three to six words together. You like to tell me how you feel and what you’d like to do (I hope that never changes). You haven’t quite mastered “Harry”, instead you call your big brother “Haro”.
You enjoy pointing out objects, such as trucks, bugs and airplanes. Hot air balloons that occasionally soar by our house are among your favorites.
Wearing hats, especially when they’re unnecessary, is one of the many ways you make us laugh. While in the kitchen one day, you waltzed in said, “Hi Mom” and as I turned to say hello, you grinned when I noticed Harry’s play safari hat atop your head. We both laughed because you instinctively knew wearing his safari hat indoors was silly. In public, you often sport the pink and blue striped newborn cap, the same one every newborn receives from the hospital. I suspect you like to wear it for the laugh factor. No need to convince you to keep hats (and sunglasses) on while outdoors. Maybe you can influence Harry to do the same!
The other night you had Harry and me in hysterics. Harry and I were seated on the floor in his bedroom as you continuously slid down the play ramp each time contorting your face in one peculiar position after another!
Another night while having dinner, you inconspicuously began hanging spaghetti from your face. Daddy, amused by your antics, was the first to notice!
Winne-the-Pooh, Dora the Explorer, Barney and Thomas the Tank Engine are your favorite animated characters. Cereal, strawberries, grapes, grilled cheese, cookies and ice cream are among your favorite foods. Before your 2nd birthday party, you spoke frequently about “Pooh” cake. In fact, as Dad entered the kitchen after returning from Albertson’s with your “Pooh” cake, you grabbed a fork and almost plunged it into the cake’s middle just as we stopped your hand and explained waiting until your friends arrived. Well, you climbed into your high chair and patiently waited for guests to appear. Fortunately, friends distracted you by playing with toys until it was time to cut your “Pooh” cake. A loud chorus of “Happy Birthday” evoked giggles and smiles.
You take great pleasure in the Kindermusik program which is designed to bring music into your life and help develop your love of learning. We have been attending sessions since you were six months old. You now know some songs to sing along with me. I believe you’re learning rhythm and beat too. You focus and intimate behaviors. You ask almost every day if it’s a “my class” day even though we attend only once per week. I predict music (in some form) will be one of your past times.
Screeching, at the top of your powerful lungs, is one of very few undesirable toddler habits. Dad dubbed your ear-piercing shriek as “Grace’s super sonic scream”. We mostly hear your super sonic scream when life isn’t quite going your way. I understand your desire to scream when life takes an unexpected and unwanted turn. Hold true to your already known likes and dislikes.
You’re an incredibly affectionate child who still likes to be held and spend quiet time reading books in my lap. You comment on pictures and point to objects, or sometimes you twirl my hair while sucking your thumb. I am thrilled you’re interested in the world around you! You’re a true blessing and I’m glad you’re here!
Love always,
Mom
