To Joseph at 18 months

To My dearest Joe,

It feels weird even writing 18 months. I can hardly get my head around the fact that you, my baby boy are 18 months. It seems like just yesterday that you came into  our world, but on the other hand  I cannot remember a life without you in it.

You have changed so much in the past few months. You tackle life head on, fearless and always in a rush. You don't really walk, instead you look  to be constantly on the verge of running on those beautiful, chubby little legs. And climb! I swear you give me palpitations on a daily basis, often more than once. I thought you were going to be my cruisy, laidback one, but now- you are my wild man for sure! 

Cuddles, well you certainly love those. I love how you play and then every so often just come for a cuddle, almost like a reassurance that I am still there, and a reassurance that you still love me.  Being able to have this one on one time with you has been magical and I feel so blessed. When I carried you in my belly I used to worry how I could have enough love to give to another child, I needn't have worried. We have such a strong bond you and I.

Watching the love you have for your big brother, and he for you,  is exquisite. No one can make you laugh like Elijah can. He is so very patient with you, gentle with you. When you are hurt, he hurts too. This loving relationship  makes me so very proud, lets me know as parents we may get stuff wrong, but this we have got so very right.

Joseph,  you have this way, just like Elijah does of making people love you. You are not shy and will go to anyone, but you reserve your biggest cuddles for your favourite people. You have such a beautiful, ready smile. I love watching it spread across your face, until every inch of you is smiling. That smile can fix even my worst day.

Joseph, you delight me. You are naturally funny, you are clever, you are crazy gorgeous and just plain crazy. You push me to my absolute limits at times, but give me so much love. You help me to see the wonder in the world, remind me to slow down and just be. I love you to the moon and back little man, and I always will