Doggie Door and being 2

Dear JJ,

When you were a few months old the doggie door fascinated you. A few months ago you began to tease Lucky by putting his toys out the doggie door.

Then you discovered - yes, you could go through it.

Two year olds- lots of energy. Lots of exploring. We love it

Love,

I saw this and said- uh oh

Then I saw this

Almost in like a plumber

Uh oh

Now what?

Dad

Your first trike

Your love it - from the moment you saw it

You don't have to push it son

Playing outside, rougher on grass

A nice place to relax with a bottle and your blanket

Really, the bell - it works

Dear JJ,

Your mom and I were excited to get your first vehicle! A trike. You took to it immediately, and we even have a little bar on the back where we can push and steer you around the neighborhood.

There are a lot of new things that come into people's lives - and sometimes people think it is the joy of obtaining things that is the secret to happiness. But for you it isn't a possession- it was just joy- a way to move around, a new sensation, and fun. 

We love seeing your joy - because that brings us joy.

Love, 

Dad

Kitchen Help

Dear JJ,

For months you have been sitting in your high chair, watching daddy cook. When I would fix something you would look at me season a chicken, or bread some veal, or Sous Vide some steak. Then we got you some play dough. You love it- sort of. So, decided to try your hand in the kitchen.
You love "help daddy cook."
Your mom said, "he isn't growing up to be a chef," to which I responded, he will grow up to be a cook.
Of course we don't know what you will grow up to be. But you like helping dad in the kitchen - and I like having you there. We will let the future take care of that.
Until then - pass the salt.

Love,
Dad

Its for me, not you

Dear JJ,

Apparently most 2 year olds have bad dreams, and don't sleep well. You are not the exception. You wake up, and nothing better than mom or dad comforting you. We come into your room, get a bit of milk for you, and lay down until you drift off to sleep. 

A patient of mine died - suddenly, unexpectedly, and I couldn't sleep. When I heard you cry and came to your room with a bit of milk and lay down, you put your hand on me and patted me on the chest as if to say "its ok daddy." I slept well after that. Sometimes we need comfort too. Thank you JJ

Love Dad

NOODLES

Do I extend my pinkie?

Coffee is a morning ritual now

Your favorite place to travel- with mom

When you look down at the trucks, cars, buses

The Crib

Dear JJ,

The crib is gone- and in its place is a regular bed - a twin bed.
What I like is that now I can lay down with you and tell you stories or sing as you go to sleep. It makes bedtime a lot easier. Before you would fall asleep in the big chair and we would have to put you into this crib. But now the crib is gone.
I've loved every minute of you. Some say that time just goes by too fast - and maybe it does. I'm just glad for every minute that I get to watch you grow.
Bye Bye Crib-

Love, Dad

You call yourself Doctor JJ

Your favorite dish - Pasta

A bear invaded Phoenix Country Club- your first trick or treat

You and your beautiful mom in San Francisco 

But no matter what- always good to get home and see Lucky