What I did on my second birthday

This week, one little guy in our house turned two!

He's definitely ready to be two, as he's grown so much over the past few months. The evidence is everywhere: For the first time in six years, we live in a house without a baby gate, without a booster at the kitchen table, without a crib, with very few child safety devices AND with a coffee table and bowl of fruit on the table. Seriously people, it's the little things.

He's still not talking much, but is communicating more and more. He is so sweet and always finds little ways to help out. 

He still loves to vacuum, blow bubbles and has the best shooting form I've ever seen from a toddler. 

And he adores his family and is the most affectionate guy around here.

On his birthday, we had a quiet jammie, lego-playing start.

Then, he danced his heart out while I got his brothers ready for swimming lessons.

He sat on the lounge chair next to me, sharing a snack while the big brothers swam.

And afterwards, we visited the wading pool so he could swim too, a favorite activity.

After a special happy meal lunch, it was nap time. 

A perfect chance for the birthday elves to get to work.

He woke up happy, blue eyes shining and blonde (that's right, he's no longer a brunette) hair curly.

With a special surprise, Daddy home early!

One more dip in the pool, this time in the backyard.

And another chance to work on his ballin skills.

After dinner, a few perfect gifts, including some new socks and shoes (which have barely left his feet since) and an amazing circus tent from IKEA. They have the best gifts under $20... and with one a few minutes down the road, our house is looking more and more like the IKEA catalog.

A brother-decorated cake and happy birthday song...

and lots of huffing and puffing, even after the flames were gone. 

It was a great two-year-old birthday.

Happy birthday Xavier!

We love you so much!