Life's Little Adventures: 32 Months

Caleb, you are 32 months old! WOW! What a blessing and joy you are to daddy and I! Truly, our days are filled with lots of cuddles, kisses, wrestling, playing and jumping on beds, eating lots of food and snacks, watching Thomas, VeggieTales or one of your other favorites, reading books, playing trains, drawing, spelling, counting (in English AND Spanish - he learned the Spanish from Dora!), dancing to music, doing our scripture memory verse, singing, coloring, racing cars, learning how to share with Asher, and definitely a few rough moments throughout each day! Nonetheless, our lives and days are NEVER EVER boring!!!

This summer has been especially hard because of all this stinkin' hot weather! 68 days so far of temps over 100 degrees can definitely put a damper on outdoor fun, or trips in the car period, so we've spent A TON of time at home! I don't think I've ever been so ready and excited for fall!!

Over this past month, you've have changed a lot. It's been a great month of learning a lot of new things, but also very difficult month, as I feel like you are in the heat of the 2nd year brain development, and all the difficulties that come along with that. There have been many tears, mostly from mommy, but you've had your share too. And there has been more discipline than I'd really like. Our timeout rug needs a time out. Many times, mommy has needed, and has taken, a time out. But most of the time, unfortunately, you're the one in timeout. Sweet boy, I know this phase is so incredibly difficult for you. Just know mommy and daddy love you UNCONDITIONALLY. There is nothing you could ever do that would change that. I know you don't quite understand what is going on in your brain right now, and most of the time your facial expressions and the way you react to situations make it very clear how much you don't understand what is going on. I'm learning, on a daily basis, where to draw the line on discipline vs. giving grace and allowing you to share your emotions in a healthy way. I know you need to be able to express yourself, but I think you are struggling with knowing how to actually do that, and so anything negative comes out as screaming or throwing yourself on the floor. I'm trying to teach you how to scream in to your pillow, but you haven't caught on yet. This is what I did when I was frustrated growing up, and it helped so very much, so I'm hoping maybe it will help you during your hard times as well.

My precious boy, mommy and daddy are learning just as much as you are right now, and for the first time as well. We want what's best for you, and we know that we are not perfect, but are truly striving to honor the Lord with the way that we parent you. Our hearts greatest desire is for our lives to be a reflection of God's love, so strongly, that one day you will trust him with your life, and give him every ounce of your being. We pray for you every day, and will continue to do just that. We are for you, we are your biggest fans, and even though this is a rough patch, we know that it is only a short time before it will be gone, and we will be in the next exciting phase of your life! We love you more than words could ever express sweetheart, and are so excited to continue watching you as you grow and develop! What a treasure you are to us!!

Here are a few pics from the last month! We have had some GREAT memories made for sure! And I just can't get enough of your sweet smiling face!!

cuddle time with daddy, a MUST and one of your favorite times of the day!