Kisses and Ka Tas

Dear Caden,

Today you have hurt your toe about 84 times, and the day is still young. Amid the bustle of noises from your toys I hear a loud "thunk" followed quickly by a wail of pain. You hobble over to me with huge crocodile tears flowing down your cheeks.

"Ow! Ow! Ooowww!"

"What happened Caden? What hurts?"

"My toe!" (Make that 85)

"Does Mommy need to kiss it and make it better for you?"

"Yeah! Kisses!. . . And ka tas! (new word for ketchup)"

If only all of your life's owies were easily fixed with kisses and ketchup. I pray they are for years to come.

Love,
Mommy

Puzzle Pieces

Dear Caden,

Yes, "puzzle pieces" have the word "puzzle" in them. The puzzle part is supposed to be putting the pieces together to make a big picture, not to try and find said puzzle piece. After nap time we were missing several of these pieces and were quite puzzled as to where you hid them (pun intended). Finally Mommy and Daddy gave up and asked you. . . in which you kindly pointed to your diaper hamper. Of all places. Seriously? Oh wait. . .what the heck is your red hoodie doing in there too?! Guess the diaper hamper needs to hide in the closet during sleepy time.

Love,
Mommy

Toddler Bed

Dear Caden,

I am not sure when it happened. Perhaps the day that you told me, "Mommy, I down. I big. I walk." Or the day that you were able to to go outside and name nearly everything that you saw without hesitation. Somehow, somewhere, you morphed from a tiny, helpless little baby into a fountain of pure energy, limitless questions, handsome big boy. Today we put away your crib for baby brother and put up a toddler bed. You picked out Thomas the Train and Cars bed sets. Of course, you spent the entire nap time out of bed instead of in it, and decided rolling on your bedroom floor and knocking on your bedroom door were way more entertaining. Mommy can't wait until night time [insert eye roll]. Please know that even though you feel like you are a big boy, that you will always be Mommy's baby, my Happy Thought.

Love,
Mommy

Bubble Games

Dear Caden,

We have a little game that we play when you take your bath, and it is more fun when there are mountains of bubbles surrounding you. We play hide and seek with your toys. I will ask, "Where's the fish?" and you will happily hunt until you find it, and we continue on until we have found all of the animals. However, tonight you decided to add a twist to the game. . . and it all started with the sound of extra bubbles being added to the tub. With the most innocent and serious face, you looked at me and stated, "Uh oh! I poo!" You then promptly asked, "Where my poo go?" Dear Caden, can you even begin to realize how disgusting it is to try and find your poo in a bath full of toys and bubbles. . . lots and lots of bubbles? This firmly cements the fact that you will be potty trained very soon.

Love,
Mommy

Young Grasshopper

Dear Caden,

I made the comment last night to Daddy that Peanut is quite active and constantly kicks. You then came up to me as cute as possible, while lifting up your leg ninja-style, and asked, "I kick too?" That would be a NO young grasshopper.

Love,
Mommy

Hands

Dear Caden,

Do you know how creepy it is to have the restroom door closed and see a little hand reaching towards you underneath?

Love,
Mommy

The Christmas Story

Dear Caden,

And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them : and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not : for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this [shall be] a sign unto you ; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a  manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. Luke 2:8-14

And that, My Dear Caden, is what Christmas is all about.

Love,
Mommy

Santa

Dear Caden,

I know that you are uber excited about opening your gifts and seeing what Santa brought you, that or eating another one of Santa's cookies - However, please stop climbing out of your crib. Grammy told me that Daddy climbed out his crib on Christmas Eve too. Please keep in mind that Santa will not visit until you are asleep. And yes, you must be asleep for longer than 15 minutes.

Love,
Mommy

P.S.  I totally saw you sneak one of Santa's cookies

Hi!

Dear Caden,

I am sitting on the floor playing with you and you decide to stick your cute little face not even 2 inches from mine. You begin to say my name every way possible, "Mommy! Moo-ooommy! Momma! Mom! Mamma! Mooooooommmmmmy! Ma! Mommy! Mmmmmmommy!"

"What Caden? What do you need?"

You inch closer to me, "Moooooomma! Mommy! Mommmmmmy! Mooooooommmmmmieeeeee!"

"WHAT?! Caden, what do you need sweetie?!"

"Hi!"

Love,
Mommy

Nosy Spaghetti

Dear Caden,

You are eating spaghetti, slurping the noodles up one by one and giggling as the sauce flies off spraying your face. This form of messy entertainment lasts for at least 20 min, but hey- at least you are eating something besides waffles and bananas. Suddenly you sneeze quickly, 3 times in a row. The look that you gave me afterwards left me in a breathless, hysterical laughter. Every time you would breathe out of your nose, a small piece of noodle would peep in and out of it. Awesomeness.

Love,
Mommy

Ravioli Apocalypse

Dear Caden,

I understand that you are none too happy with Mommy for trying to clean ravioli out of every possible nook and cranny after dinner tonight. However, your anger is very much misplaced. The Mayans predicted the world would end today, therefore Mommy let you eat the messiest meal possible in hopes that the Apocalypse would occur before clean-up. Blame the Mayan's, I know I am.

Love,
Mommy

One Year Cranioversary!

Dear Caden,

One year ago today, I faced a giant that I pray to never face again. I had to hand you over to surgeons so that they could do a cranial surgery to save your little life. My heart never felt pain as it did that day. I know that God's angels held you while Mommy couldn't and that God had His hands over the Surgeon's.

Today I see you, a busy and thriving two yr old, waffle loving little boy. I adore you Caden, you bring craziness and love into my world. May your story one day help that of another family. You are special Caden, for I know that when I see that one widened part of your scar, that that is where God Himself kissed you on the OR table, giving you His healing kiss of approval. You are a daily reminder that He still works miracles. Happy one year cranioversary my dear Caden.

Love,
Mommy and Daddy

You and Daddy right before the surgery

In the PICU 

Mommy's 1st view of you after a 5hr surgery

Your incision

One year later, helping Mommy in the kitchen

Last Christmas you were in the hospital, this Christmas you sit on Santa's lap

Playing with Daddy as a healthy and happy little boy

Baby Mon-tee!

Dear Caden,

I know that the concept of a growing baby in Mommy's tummy is a little different for you. However, I hope you aren't too disappointed when baby brother debuts. Today when Daddy asked you if you wanted a baby brother, you proudly stated "No, I want a mon-tee! (monkey)" I hate to break it to you, but Mommy birthing a monkey may prove to be challenging, and will probably never happen.

Love,
Mommy

Baby Brother!

Dear Caden,

Well, your little sister has somehow morphed into a little boy! You are going to have a baby brother! The Doctor sure was surprised since we thought the baby was a girl! I know that you will be an absolute amazing big brother and he is blessed to have you show him the ropes. I love my little boys!

Baby Brother is smiling

It's a Boy!

Love,
Mommy

Clean Up Time!

Dear Caden,

It started with this. I should've known...

And then Mommy turned the corner. My question is, how did you do this in just two minutes from our last cleaning? No rest for the weary. *sigh*

Love,
Mommy

Happy Birthday Great Grandpa Brown!!!

Dear Caden,

Today is a bittersweet day for Mommy. Today is (your Great) Grandpa Brown's birthday! Unfortunately you will never have the opportunity to sit on his lap while he sings you his silly red bug songs. You won't know the excitement that Uncle Gene and I had from staying over at Grandpa's because we got to stay up until the sun came up, playing Mario video games and drinking coffee with our sugar. As with every person, Grandpa had his faults, but he was the most amazing Grandpa and Mommy loved and still does, him very much. One day, I will take you to where he sleeps and we will place fresh flowers there and tell him all about how much you have grown up. I promise to always keep his memory alive through pictures and stories, weaving him into the fabric of your little heart until we all join him in Heaven. So tonight when we pray, we will ask Jesus to give Grandpa a kiss from us and let him know that we are doing our very best to make him proud. One day, after Jesus tells us, "Well done, thy good and faithful servant!", we will race across the clouds of Heaven and Grandpa will finally get to hold you on his knee and sing to you, "Oooooh say can you see, any red bugs on me?! If you caaaan, pick a few! . . . And we'll make a red bug stew!!!"

Love,
Mommy

Dear Grandpa,

It still hurts so much, knowing that you are no longer here. I celebrate today, your day, in my heart. Thank you for being the best grandfather to me, for allowing an awkward 8yr old put your few wisps of silver hair into pig tails. For allowing me to sit on your lap and fall asleep. For just loving me. They say it gets easier with time, it has been 11 yrs, and it still hurts so much. Know that I carry you around with me every day in my heart, that I think of you often. Know that I am proud of the big "Brown" nose, for I know that nose came from you. May you rest in peace, waiting until Gabriel blows that trumpet. I am doing my best to raise my family to make you proud, and the right way so that when the time comes I can hold you in my arms again. Tonight, even though I am a mother myself, I will sleep with the Snoopy doll that you gave me and think of you as I drift in dreamland . . .

Love,
Your Grandbaby

Today

Dear Caden,

Today our nation experienced yet another tragedy. Many small children had their lives snuffed out way before their time. They will never get to experience true love, hear the sound of their newborn's cry . . . or just to live life. This makes my heart grieve, knowing that many Mother's and Father's arms will be empty tonight.

So tonight I will hold you closer, make you laugh a little longer and remind you how much we adore you. But it won't be just tonight, it will be every night until the end of time. Even then, I will be there with you. You are amazing, just the way you are. May you always feel wanted and loved.

During these times where man can show us the unthinkable, I want you to look a little deeper. It will be difficult to look past the screams of those that are hurting, past the groans as Earth soaks up the blood of the innocents, past all of the nightmares and pain. I don't want you to lose your faith in humanity or to lose hope that there is still good in the world. It is there, but you have to look a little deeper, believe a little harder. I want you to see the other side of this horrific tragedy, I want you to see how the Nation is holding their loved ones a little closer. How strangers are helping one another. How, if we all hold onto one another's hand, we can rebuild. We will never understand, but tonight we can pray for healing and pray for peace. Be a difference in your world Caden. Show them that good still exists.

I want you to be able to play outside and let the sun shine on your face without a care in the world. I will fight tooth and nail to make sure you are able to have that. Know that tonight while I hold you, you are safe in my arms. When you step outside, you are safe in His arms. I love you my dear Caden.

Love,
Mommy

Corn and Waffles

Dear Caden,

Corn and waffles. It's what's for dinner.

Love,
Mommy

Peas

Dear Caden,

You have recently joined the rest of the toddler world- refusing to eat anything that isn't smothered in ta ta's (ketchup)  and gagging at the sight of vegetables. No matter how much you try to to convince me, I promise you, those peas are not boogers . . . you can quite calling them that as you flick them across the table.

Love,
Mommy

I Poo!

Dear Caden,

"Moooommma!", you holler at me, standing less than two feet away in a crowded waiting room.
"Yes, Caden?" I whisper, trying to get you to quiet down.
"Moooommma!", you holler again. You stand tall with your arms held above your head, likening to that of a gymnast after their final landing jump.
"I Poooooo!" you proudly exclaim.
So theatrical you are, so dramatic. Thanks for letting the world know.

Love,
Mommy

Ta Ta's

Dear Caden,

You are happily noshing away on dinosaur shaped chicken nuggets when suddenly you say, "I want ta ta's." I pause for a moment, debating on what to say or do, then decide to continue what I was doing. "Moooommy! I want ta ta's peeeaaaas!" Knowing that we are way past that feeding stage of life and the only ta ta's that I am currently aware of will be inappropriate for you for quite some time, I stand at a loss for words. "I don't understand Caden, what do you want?" You sigh, climb out of your chair, tap on the refrigerator until I open it. You give me a look of, "Seriously?" and grab the ketchup, "Ta ta's Mommy." Of course.

Love,
Mommy

Banana Love

Dear Caden,

Lately you have been fixated on bananas. There have been many a day in which you eat two, and continue asking for more. Perhaps this is what is fueling those monkey-like antics? I am still trying to figure out how you got an entire 7 inch banana shoved into your mouth with just 2 bites. Guess those chipmunk cheeks are coming in handy.

Love,
Mommy

Grassy Knees

Dear Caden,

The sun shines on your brown hair, making your eyes sparkle. Your laughter bubbles freely from within you as you run around chasing a ball with other children in the neighborhood. You take a tumble, giggle, stand up and start running again. I cannot help but smile, a sense of peace and happiness settling within me. A year ago this month you would have to have major skull reconstructive surgery. A year ago this month, I felt like I was a failure. What did I do to cause this, what could I have done that would've prevented it? Now, I watch you squeal with delight, and all is right in the world. You are a growing, healthy and happy little boy with grass covered knees and dirt between your toes. Life is as it should be.

Love,
Mommy

Play-Doh

Dear Caden,

While playing with you in the play room, I see a dark brown log-looking thing fall out of your pant leg which you immediately pick up and began playing with.  To my absolute horror- you begin nibbling on it. After grabbing it, I realize it was some of the Play-Doh we were playing with earlier. Way to traumatize Mommy. . . now I know I must frisk you down every time after Play-Doh. GROSS.

Love,
Mommy

Hidden Stash

Dear Caden,

You are quietly (ha!) playing in your play room and I suddenly see you eating something. Not knowing if this is a toy, I ask you to spit it out. You happily oblige, spitting out way more slobber than I anticipated. In my hand sits a craisin...wait, when did you last have craisins?! Where did you get this? You then show me your stash. Hidden inside your crawl-through tunnel there is a little flap, underneath this flap I see countless craisins, goldfish, a waffle piece and I can only assume a piece of banana. Caden, please know that it is doubtful that the world will end in 18 days; and I will always feed you when you are hungry. You don't have to resort to hoarding. Ever.

Love,
Mommy

SNOW!

Dear Caden,

I walk downstairs and peer into your play room. The floor and half of your toys are covered in white. I ask what happened and you grin, exclaiming, "SNOW!" Considering that we live in Houston and it is 80 degrees on Dec 2nd, it is highly doubtful this is snow. Instead you took out Every. Single. Last. Wipe. out of the brand new container. At least you don't let Houston dictate your weather expectations and apparently have learned to make your own snow.

Love,
Mommy

Presents

Dear Caden,

You became fussy this morning so Daddy asked you if you were "shewie." You immediately said, "No!", shaking your head emphatically and continued being grumpy. The smell surrounding you said otherwise. Daddy rephrased his question asking, "Did you make a present for Mommy?" You stopped what you were doing, began grinning and said, "Yeah! Present!" For the sake of your future wife, apparently Mommy needs to clarify what a 'present' should be.

Love,
Mommy

Night, Night Moon

Dear Caden,

Getting ready for bed tonight, we do our normal routine of reading you 2 books, changing into your jammies and brushing your teeth. You insisted on hugging Tiger and Lilly night-night, even though Lilly tried to run from you, you caught her. You then pressed your little nose up against the window and said, "Night, night moon. Night, night stars. Night, night lights (Christmas lights)." I want to capture this childhood innocence and pray that I never forget this. As you stare up in the sky, the moon reflecting in your eyes, I want to see what you see and feel what you feel. Absolute perfection.

Love,
Mommy

Where'd it Go?

Dear Caden,

Lately you have been into the game of hiding things and afterwards say, "Where'd it go?" until said item is found-that is, if it is found. Your left shoe in the refrigerator, your sippy cup in Tiger's house, your socks in between the couch cushions, ect. Your diaper should not be one of these special hiding places. Especially when it is one of those diapers. Mommy was none to excited to find your moo cow, 4 cheerios, 2 crushed goldfish and a lego (where'd you find that to begin with?!). Disgusting.

Love,
Mommy

Left Shoe

Dear Caden,

Your left shoe is missing. Vanished. Absolutely nowhere to be found. Of course, this only happens when we are running late. I give up, open the fridge to grab your milk, and there it is . . . right next to your ball.

Love,
Mommy

The Turkey is a BIRD?!

Dear Caden,

I apologize for freaking you out by telling you that the turkey you were devouring was a bird. Not the best move on my part because now you appear traumatized and completely confused. Hopefully you will forget this by lunch time.

Love,
Mommy

P.S. I will let you figure out for yourself where chicken nuggets come from.

Blyah, Blyah, Blyah

Dear Caden,

Lately you have been adding, "blyah, blyah, blyah" to your sentences and it is quite hysterical. This evening you leaned over the bathtub and told me, "blyah, blyah, blyah, bubbles." I add bubbles to your bath water and you promptly tell me, "blyah, blyah, blyah, hand Mommy." Not sure what you are wanting, I ask you. You then take my hand and fill it with bubbles. Ohhh, ok. I can do that. So, I start filling my hand with bubbles and suddenly you  grab my hand, steering it to your mouth and start eating the bubbles. I try to convince you that this probably isn't the best idea, but to no avail. However, you look very, "blyah, blyah, blyah, adorable" rocking that bubble goatee.

Love,
Mommy

Go! Go! Go!

Dear Caden,

Daddy picked you up from Ms. Vickie's yesterday and said that you were quite talkative on the way home. You had passed by a park and saw all the joggers on the track and excitedly started saying, "Go! Go! Go!" Had I known that I would've had my own cheering section, perhaps I would've started exercising a long time ago (highly doubtful). Then you proceeded to tell Daddy to, "Go! Go! Go!", except your buddy, the Police Officer, was right behind Daddy (maybe next time).

Love,
Mommy

Nom, Nom, Nom

Dear Caden,

You cannot eat by feeding food to your belly button- no matter how hard you try. Telling it, "nom, nom, nom" won't help either. Your belly button isn't hungry and never will be.

Love,
Mommy

Thuggin' It

Dear Caden,

Your shorts should be your hiney hider without your diaper hanging out. Just like all the gangstas and thugs with their shorts to their knees and their boxers hanging out, this look does not become you.

Love,
Mommy

Steroids

Dear Caden,

Last week we took you to the Pediatrician because you were having difficulty breathing from all your congestion. Diagnosis: bilateral ear infections and RAD (respiratory airway disease). Treatment: antibiotics, breathing treatments Q4hrs, rescue inhaler and oral steroids. All I heard was steroids. On an already busy 2 yr old. Fabulous. Last night you were in bed singing and talking to yourself and Mr. SeaHorse until you crashed at 10:45pm. Dinner last night for you consisted of: 1 1/2 chicken breasts, baked beans, 1 taco, 4 waffles, 1 banana, a cup of dried cranberries and 2 cups of milk...and you were still asking for a snack. These steroids are something.

Love,
Mommy

Toilet Paper

Dear Caden,

I understand that technically, you did do exactly what I asked. However, when Mommy begs for you to bring her some toilet paper because Daddy left the roll nearly empty, please bring back more than just the corner of one square.

Love,
Mommy

Mary Poppins Purse

Dear Caden,

Purses are known to be a catch all for junk. Mommy's purse is similar to Mary Poppins purse- you never know when I will need to pull out that lamp. While transferring my things to a new purse I noticed that you have been adding a few things of your own for Mommy to keep safe. I just hope you aren't too attached to those cheerios, the pacifier with lint and dirt that you haven't used for a year and a half, the marker that has dried out, several crushed goldfish and a really icky looking piece of waffle.

Love,
Mommy

Fearfully and Wonderfully Made

Dear Caden,

Today you had your 1 yr post-op appointment for your cranial surgery at Texas Children's Hospital. There were a lot of people in the waiting room and a few little people your age in which you quickly became friends. Both of your surgeons cleared you completely, saying that you will NOT need any additional surgeries! Thank you Jesus! Looking around the waiting room you could see child after child with various health conditions, some slight but many severe. My gaze wanders to you as you share your toy car with another child.  My heart is so full of thanksgiving, I am speechless by God's goodness. You had to have major reconstructive skull surgery, but you are healthy and thriving. You are absolutely perfect in every way, shape or form. You are fearfully and wonderfully made.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               

Love,
Mommy

Velcro

Dear Caden,

While I am standing in the kitchen, I suddenly hear you hollering out, "No, no, no! Ay, yi, yi! No, no, no!" I race outside to see what is wrong and there you are: you had undone the velcro straps of your shoes and had crawled onto the outside rug. The velcro was firmly stuck to the rug and every time you moved, the rug rolled on top of you. Apparently you didn't like this one bit.

Love,
Mommy

Nixing Naps

Dear Caden,

Yesterday Mommy went to celebrate Aunt Sam's baby shower and left you to play with Daddy. On my way back home, Daddy made the comment that you refused to take a nap. Due to the fact that you are getting bigger everyday, I told Daddy that this sometimes happens. However, when I asked Daddy how you ate your lunch he said that you refused to eat your chicken nuggets that Mommy lovingly baked for you before she left. Daddy said he didn't know what else to feed you, so he gave you left over donut holes from breakfast, which of course you inhaled. Perhaps this is why you didn't nap?

Love,
Mommy

Greatness

Dear Caden,

I have been mulling over this letter for awhile now, trying to figure out the best way I should write this letter. The answer is clear, as it always is. I will write this letter from my heart.

America recently exercised it's ability to come together and vote for our next leader, the President of the United States. Our country believes in democracy. This was not a given right, it is one that was fought for, prayed for and believed in. When our country was just beginning, men and women gave their lives to ensure this belief came to fruition and many men and women since, have spilled their blood to maintain our chance at true freedom. We are America, the Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave. Our freedom, sadly, was not free and we must never forget that. I pray I teach you to honor those in the in the military, to stand proudly with your hand over your heart during the pledge of Allegiance and anytime the American flag is passed in front of you. Be proud of your heritage, be proud to be an American for it truly is a privilege.

Right now our country is divided. Our economy is weak and many people no longer have morals or values.  Gone are the days of having a steady job and trying to better yourself by getting an education. People believe that everything should be given to them on a silver platter. That healthcare, housing, food and other amenities should be granted to them. We have the right to, "Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness." The key word is pursuit- we are not guaranteed happiness. So Caden, I want you to educate yourself, do something with your life. Make a difference in your world and always stand for what you believe in. Life is full of compromise, but you must never compromise your morals or ethics. In this house you will have chores, you will be expected to do your part. You will be expected to have manners and to treat everyone with kindness. You will be expected to be honest and you will donate your time to charitable causes with Mommy and Daddy. The house you live in is one of morals, values and love. I will be your friend, but I will be your mother first, and it is my responsibility to raise you into a good man. It will be a challenge as you will see other friends your age that have an easier life and may be given an easier road, but I have high expectations for you and I rise up and accept the challenge.

I do not believe that our country's faults can be fixed by electing one president over another. It would definitely make our country stronger and we would be more blessed if there was a man of integrity leading our great nation. Instead our country needs it's people to  look at themselves individually and take stock of their lives. Our beautiful nation is turning rotten to the core because people no longer care. I pray that you  reach out to your world and show them with your life and your actions, how amazing someone can really be. Show them what hard work and perseverance can do. Many people believe that only the corrupt move up in the world- prove them wrong. I believe that you can do anything that you set your mind to Caden. It may not always be easy, but that is life- play the cards you are dealt and play them to the best of your ability. Instead of clinging to the belief that if something goes wrong you are crippled in life, tell the world that this is just a stepping stone. All of us have baggage in our lives, find someone who loves you enough to help you unpack and move on. Your life, mistakes and all, is your story. How you choose to tell it is up to you. You can use it to help others or use it as a crutch. Be a true American and strive for the American Dream.

When you are of age to vote, I pray that you do. However, do not vote 'just because' and please do not vote without doing your research first. I will gladly help you do your research so that you can be educated. When you vote, stand by your choice. It is ok if you don't agree with my choice of who to vote for, as long as you know why you are choosing your candidate and can stand by your choice. Choose your candidate wisely, for the damage they can do can be great or the greatness and good they can do can change the world. Choose someone with integrity, morals and honesty- this is the hardest part. Sadly, most of the time neither party is completely honest and tells the public what they want to hear instead of what they need to hear. This is where your research comes in. You must dig deeper, you must look at who they are as a whole.  Remember that actions speak louder than words, and many politicians have the art of the silver tongue. The most important thing you can do while waiting to vote is to pray. Pray that God touches our country, that the chosen candidate- whether it is who you voted for or not- leads our country to greatness. They have a very tough job, and it is so easy for us to judge and throw stones when mistakes are made. All of us have made mistakes and hindsight is 20/20. Pray that our leader has a tender heart towards God and pray that God directs his steps. Ultimately God is in control. Make sure you pray the same prayer for you and your family. You, my dear Caden, will be the leader in your home. Make sure your steps are those of a strong and confidant man with a clear conscience and a tender heart.

So grow up Caden, but take your time and learn to play and enjoy the smaller things in life. I promise to do my best to help lead you to greatness. Be proud of your country, be proud of your life, be proud of yourself. Don't be afraid to be who you are, don't be afraid to believe. To make a change in this world we need a good leader, don't be afraid to be that leader. Stand for those that can't, make friends with those that are different. Show this world that good can prevail, that Hope is still alive. Be the difference, go out and change your world and lead us all to greatness.

Love,
Mommy

Kisses

Dear Caden,

Mommy loves your kisses. However, please do not take a swig of milk and belch right in my face before giving said kiss. It just kinda loses it's touch and makes Mommy want to kinda lose her lunch.

Love,
Mommy

Birthday Party!

Dear Caden,

Yesterday you had so much fun celebrating your birthday! We had a delicious cake with gummy worms coming out of it and you also searched for worms in the mud (pudding).

Wow! Is this for me?!

Birthday Cake!

Eating birthday cake with Cousin Caleb

Feeding Pops gummy worms

Digging for worms in the mud

After all the cake and goodies, you were showered with a lot of gifts. You were so excited! Even though Aunt Holly and Uncle Nate couldn't make it, they sent you a Little People's barn yard, you pointed to the cow and said, "Mooo!" Aunt Sam came early and helped all day to make your  party go off without a hitch, in which Mommy is ever so grateful, she got you a Little People's zoo set and you really liked the monkey! Lolli and Pop's and the rest of the Brown crew got you a DVD of Looney Tune's Mouse Chronicles and a fall outfit. Aunt Nika and Caleb got you really cute outfit and some fun, squishy food playdoh! Grammy Lisa got you a turtle that you can turn on at night that shine stars on the ceiling. You REALLY like stars! She also got you Leap Frog book, which you enjoyed playing with on the way home! Mommy and Daddy got you a Mr. & Mrs. Potato Head and a Caden-sized trampoline. Wow! That is a lot of gifts for such a tiny person!

Ewww, so squishy! Aunt Rachel is helping me dig!

Pops has a worm in his mouth!

Unsure at first

Starting to figure it out

Bounce, Bounce, Bounce! So much fun!!

Play Doh fun!

Leap Frog book, I love books!

Stars! Stars!

Zoo!

Moo Cow!

You are officially no longer a baby! May you continue to grow and explore and have lots of fun! Even though we all got together to celebrate your big day, know that Mommy and Daddy celebrate you everyday. You are our miracle and the sweetest little boy. We love you Caden, Happy 2nd Birthday!!

Love, 

Mommy

Happy Birthday!

Dear Caden,

Today is your 2nd birthday! I hope today is filled with giggles, cupcakes and loads of fun! At this time two years ago, your daddy and I were nervously waiting in the OR, knowing that in a few minutes we would be able to finally meet our sweet little boy. At 1:23pm I heard the sweetest sound of your cries, you were finally here and our lives would never be the same. You made us into a family.

You are a miracle in every sense of the word. I was told by several drs that I would never be able to have children, and if I did conceive, the pregnancy would be difficult. The pregnancy with you was definitely interesting to say the least. I was in the hospital multiple times because you were so insistent on trying to come early, but after months of bed rest, you were finally finished cooking and everyone was so excited to meet you. While on bed rest Mommy became depressed, so in order to get through it, I decided to post a new happy thought everyday. You were my ultimate happy thought, and you still are. After you were born we found out that you would have to have cranial vault reconstructive surgery for saggital craniosynostosis. Try saying that several times fast! Mommy made herself sick with worry, but once again, you showed us how strong you were and sailed through the surgery and recovery like a champ.

It is a bittersweet day because as I look at you, I see your chubby cheeks and thighs slowly fading and you are now able to talk much more clearer to let me know what you need. My baby is disappearing, and in its place I see a little boy that is interested in the world and learning constantly. I must warn you though, even when you are 20+ years, you will still be my baby. My first born, my love, my dear Caden, my Happy Thought. I will do my best to take the time to watch you grow,  REALLY  watch you grow. I know there will be days that I will count down the hours and minutes until Daddy gets home, and when it will be bedtime. However, I will do my best to try and see the laughter and memory making in all of the chaos of the childhood years. I know the next few years will be tough, but I promise to pause and do my best to remember that we will but pass this way with you only once.

I love you Caden, thank you for being ours. You have made our lives full of happiness, tears, laughter and lots of messes. I wouldn't want it any other way. May you continue to grow and may you learn that there truly are no limitations to what you can do or become. Do not be afraid of failure, for that is how we grow. Always be who you are, never change to please others, for you are perfect just the way God created you. Know that you always have a place at home, that even if you mess up-which you will, because that is how you learn- you will always be welcome here and we will always love you. Be a difference in your world, believe in the goodness of others, and always be a good friend.

So today, live it up, eat waffles for dinner and bounce on the couches and stay up late because of sugar overload- Happy birthday my dear Caden!

Love,
Mommy

Yummy birthday cupcake with a gummy worm on top!

Houdini Jr Escapades

Dear Caden,

What are the odds that the SAME officer would see you AGAIN, half out of your car seat. I think I need to put my money where my mouth is. For your birthday tomorrow, you are getting a roll of Duct Tape. Let's see you escape from that.

Love,
Mommy

Dear Officer,

Thank you for finding the humor in my stress and giving me yet another warning and not a ticket. I would call your boss, but I don't want to give away that you are letting crazy moms ride around with half buckled kids. Perhaps tomorrow I will save a birthday cupcake for you, since you know, you and my son have apparently become great friends.

Love,
Mommy to Houdini Jr.

Cutest Lion

Dear Caden,

You are by far the cutest little lion that ever, "RWAURRED!" I apologize for the dumb kid that thought it would be funny to jump out and scare you just two houses into trick or treating. Needless to say it went downhill from there. He is lucky you didn't eat him, I know that your lion-self really wanted to. Thank you for restraining yourself.

Love,
Mommy

My cute Lion

I am under duress, please save me...

Must I do this Mommy?

I am non too thrilled that you did this to me

Houdini Jr.

Dear Caden,

Apparently you have been studying Houdini in your spare time. We are at a red light and a Police Officer pulls up beside us. He waves at you and you yell in your deep throated, silly way, "Hiiiii!" and wave enthusiastically. I turn around to look at you in the backseat and you have completely taken one arm and shoulder out of your car seat harness. Fantastic. Apparently I need to duct tape you down.

Love,
Mommy



Dear Officer,

Thank you for just giving me a warning when you pulled me over. It's nice to know that you understood because your wife told you that your little one did the same thing two weeks ago.

Love,
Mommy to Houdini Jr.

May 2013

Dear Caden,

We decided life was not chaotic enough. You are going to be a big brother.

Love,
Mommy

Coming May 2013

Tech said baby was blowing kisses

The Perfect Pumpkin

Dear Caden,

We took you to the pumpkin patch yesterday. You were so intent on finding THE pumpkin. You would go up one isle and down the next, tapping on some and trying to pick up several others. You found a white one with lots of bumps and stood there for several minutes eyeing it, wondering why it was so different from the other smooth, orange ones. You finally touched it saying, "Noo! Nasty!" and this elicited several laughs from people who were watching  you. You looked around and there they were- the Caden sized pumpkins. You scamper over to rows and rows of the tiny pumpkins and begin to study them. You pick up one and put it back down just to pick up another one. Suddenly you lift one up above your head with a huge smile on your face- you found it! The perfect pumpkin is in your hands! Daddy picks you up and you lean over to tell him something and begin giggling.

I want to freeze this moment. Watching the pure unadulterated joy on your face while finding your favorite pumpkin, the whispers of love in Daddy's ear, the squeals from touching the bumpy pumpkin, the smells of fall in the air with the colorful leaves slowly falling off the trees. An airplane flies overhead and you gleefully point to it, "Airpane!" and just like that, the moment passes.

I know that just as the seasons must change, so must you grow up into who God intends you to be. And while I have no doubt that you will be amazing when you are older, you are just as amazing now...as my Caden, my dear little Caden. One day, I will be taking pictures of my grandchildren while they search for THE pumpkin. And we will be able to see a fresh, whole new world through those little eyes and hear once again, the squeals of joy and you will be the Daddy getting whispers of love. But until then Caden, I promise to try and slow down and capture every moment, as fleeting as it may be, to watch you grow and find the world through your eyes.

Love,
Mommy

So many pumpkins!

Running down the isles

Airplane!

Searching for the perfect pumpkin

Secrets and giggles with Daddy

Trying to pick up the pumpkin

"Noo! Nasty!"

Bouncing

Dear Caden,

This past week you have learned to jump. You love to "bow, bow, bow!" (bounce) around the house. Watching you and Daddy bounce around the house is quite entertaining, it looks like a bunch of jumping beans. Just please stop "bow, bow, bow"-ing around the dinner table, the edge looks awfully close to your head; and I know our cat, Tiger's,  name is close to Tigger, but trust me, he does NOT want to bounce with you- it will not end well.

Love,
Mommy

I Like Big Butts

Dear Caden,

Lately we have been teaching you opposites such as, big and small and short and tall. The other day as I was bending over to get something you decided to grab my tush and excitedly say, "Big! Big!" While my tush isn't my favorite example of something large, at least I know you understand the concept. Now we need to work on learning to put a filter on your thoughts.

Love,
Mommy

Breathing Exercises

Dear Caden,

I finally figured out that the breathing exercises they teach you for childbirth really isn't for that at all.  "Whoo whoo! Whee, whee! Whoo, whoo! Whee, whee!" Instead, it is for moments like right now. Moments for when your sweet angelic child has turned into this unrecognizable, red faced screaming mini maniac with snot swinging from their nose and tears streaming down their faces. All because Mommy forgot the 'nack' (snack) container. I pick you up and you instantly turn into this limp, wet noodle able to slide out of any grasp that Mommy tries. Those breathing exercises don't seem so silly now...THIS is the marathon, I see the light at the end of the tunnel and it is called bedtime.  "Whoo whoo! Whee, whee! Whoo, whoo! Whee, whee!"

Love,
Mommy

Veggie Puffs

Dear Caden,

This past weekend we had the honor of seeing Miss Stacey become Mrs.Wittenberg. In order to keep you from officiating the ceremony with the minister, Mommy had the bright idea to keep your hands and your mouth full of veggie puffs. What Mommy didn't realize, is the hysterical knack you had for making those puffs crunch crazy loud, and in the quietest of moments.

Love,
Mommy

Performance Art

Dear Caden,

If you need to extract dried mucus from your nose, please use a tissue or a boogie wipe. The living room and kitchen walls are not the place for them. This is not considered performance art. Thank you.

Love,
Mommy

Hair Accessories

Dear Caden,


You have always been fascinated by the flowers and bows that little girls wear in their hair, often trying to tell me that you want one too. I've tried to explain to you that you are a handsome little boy, and that boys wear hats. Tonight you decided to show me that boys can be cute and have hair accessories too, although I am thinking this one isn't going to catch on...

Love,
Mommy

Yummy Ravioli!!!

But Mo-om! Don't I look adorable?!

Brown Bear

Dear Caden,

As you sit in my lap, turning the pages of Brown Bear, you like to point to the pictures and call them by name. You point to the bear and say "Bear, hair!" I proudly smile and say, "Yes! That's right! The bear has hair! Good Job, Caden!" You rub your head exclaiming, "Hair!" I swell with pride, you are so smart. You then promptly rub my leg and say, "Mommy, hair!" Ummm, yeah...

Love,
Hairy Mommy

Baa Baa

Dear Caden,

I listen as you sing to Mr. Seahorse. "Baa, Baa, Banshee..." Oh my.

Love,
Mommy

Cow Licks

Dear Caden,

I believe that every Mommy has limitations and that it is very important that said Mommy realizes these limitations. Apparently cutting and trimming is one of Mommy's limitations. I should have realized at the time, when I butchered the bushes outside the house, that this is not one of my talents. However, it took Mommy butchering your hair fully realize that I should not be allowed near hedge trimmers nor hair scissors. Thankfully both the bushes and your hair will grow back. Until then, I apologize for that awesome new cow lick that you are sporting.

Love,
Mommy

Just call me Alphalfa,
 all the cool kids have them

Why Mommy shouldn't play with scissors