Two Years Old!

(Note: This came from Brenda's Myspace blog)

Wednesday was a very special day in the Maple household. Our little Joshua is 2 years old today. It has been so amazing to watch him grow and develop over the last year. This time last year, he couldn't talk and couldn't walk. He was probably about a foot shorter (okay, maybe not that much, but he's grown a lot), and was still so dependant upon us for everything.

My, what a difference a year makes! He is such a little man now. He decided to give walking a try right around the 4th of July last year, and has become increasingly agile since that time. He's running everywhere, and he loves to do somersaults and "jump" off of things. He is talking constantly, and about 99% are actual words that can be easily understood. He's even puttting together sentences.

There have been some struggles over the last year. I remember that 18 months was probably the hardest time we've had so far. We were dealing with an increased ability to understand, but not being able to communicate it, which brought a lot of frustration for everyone. Our Christmas tree stood naked this year, as he was unable to control the impulses of playing with the ornaments. He also began asserting his own decisions, and when he didn't want to do something, he certainly would let you know. But that's all part of growing up.

We just couldn't be prouder of our little man, and look forward to what this next year will bring. A new baby brother, a new bedroom, a big boy bed, and potty training (Lord willing!). We especiallly look forward to those "Kids Say the Darndest Things" moments as his verbal skills continue to develop.

To celebrate the big day, we had his name read on the radio in the morning, and brought cookies to share with his friends at school. We had dinner at McDonalds, and play with our special birthday presents from Mommy and Daddy... a sandbox, sandbox toys, a dump truck and a rocket launcher. It is turning out to be a great day! Then this weekend is the big and much anticipated puppy party!

Happy birthday, J-Man. We love you!!!!