Hurricane Holden Turns Two - a Pictorial

My little Hurricane,

You are a force of nature, leaving random messes and gray hairs in your wake. But despite your large personality, nothing has ever been easier than loving you. I never imagined it could be so easy. So easy to get pregnant, stay pregnant, and have you. Love you.

You'll be compared to your older brother for the rest of your life. I'm sorry about that. But know that your worth isn't related to his accomplishments or age. You're Holden. Loving, snuggly, sweet, stubborn, fearless, and social little Holden.

When I was pregnant with your brother, I was afraid to love him and afraid to hope. But with you, there was never a moment when I doubted that I would hold you in my arms and rock you to sleep. I just knew. And I loved you from the moment I knew.

I loved you when you were a flicker and a grainy black and white photo.
I loved you the day before you were born.


I loved you at 4 minutes


4 days


and 4 months.


Pretty early on, I realized you were a goat and we'd have to be careful. That hasn't changed.


At 9 months, when you started climbing and walking, suddenly and fearlessly, I realized we were in trouble.


By your first birthday, you were fiercely independent.


By 18 months I knew that the stubborn streak was hereditary.


Now...


you're two. Still independent, stubborn, fearless, and loving.

and reaching for more of life every day.

Despite the gray hairs and the nervous twitch, I can't wait to see what you do next.

I love you, my snuggle bug, my buddy boo, my hurricane, my Holden.

Happy birthday.

Love,
Mommy