Second Birthday⚓︎

Dear Jackson,

Today was your second birthday, and what a birthday it was. You're not feeling well right now after getting sick at daycare, but even though it's slowing you down, you didn't let it ruin your day.

We took you to White Post Farms to the petting zoo. You had some moments where your mom and I weren't sure if you were going to enjoy it, but you did. You didn't do a whole lot of petting, but you did pet a few goats and you even got to feed a giraffe. May not seem like much, but you're already miles ahead of me on that front.

Your mom made you a cupcake, but in typical Jackson fashion, you were more fascinated with lighting and blowing out the candles than you were with the cupcake itself. I'm pretty sure you get that one from me, in case you were wondering.

This past year has been a challenge for your mom and I with adjusting to being the parents of a toddler during the Covid-19 times, but what a year it's been. We've watched you get better, smarter, faster and more with each passing day. You're curiosity and understanding of your surroundings is nothing short of remarkable. You continue to amaze us with how fast you learn and absorb everything around you. As hard as the days can be, your mom and I never lose sight of how proud of you we are. You're always exceeding our expectations, and like I've said before, it's going to take you as far as you want it to.

I don't always know it in the moment, but I know deep down that I'm the luckiest guy in the world. As difficult as things get, I know that you and your mom are my anchors. You keep me grounded and stablize my life, and I'm thankful every day that I can call you my family.

In closing, I wish you only the happiest of birthdays, and a year full of the best life has to offer. This is the second of many, and I'll always be there to make sure you know how much you mean to me.

I love you, son. Happy birthday, and many more.

Always and forever,

Dad