Happy Happy Birthday, Vance Dear!

Dear Vance,
I can't believe it's been two years since you came to our family. I will always remember the day that I found out that I was pregnant with you and the powerful assurance I received that it was your time to come to our family. You are our cayenne pepper- you spice up our family, sometimes make me sweat with your antics but can be oh so sweet. Life is never boring with you around, you take after your dad in that you can always lighten the mood with your sense of humor.
It's hard to remember sometimes that you're only turning two, Vance. You are so smart! Your vocabulary and logic really surprises me sometimes. You have been talking in full sentences for such a long time that it's hard to remember when you haven't been able to voice your opinions. People are always so surprised because you're quite petite but you're so vocal and smart. You are also so stubborn. This has provided for several humorous experiences (such as when you insisted that the onion was an apple and refused to say otherwise even after trying it) as well as given us, as your parents, the opportunity to develop patience. You are so brave- and sometimes that's scary for me as your mother- because you will jump, climb and face whatever challenge happens to be in your way with an "act now think later" mentality. I hope that you will always feel confident as you face challenges in your life as you are now. You have such a strong and independent personality and often try testing the boundaries that are set. But you also are such a good helper and really want to be good. You love learning and you love books. I love that you often approach your dad and I with a book in hand and want for us to read to you. Your favorite books lately have been, "The Giving Tree", "Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What do you See?" and "Where the Wild Things Are." You are also still our little cuddle bug and I love that!
This year has been filled with so many milestones: you have basically all your teeth and love to brush them, you love feeding yourself with your spoon and fork and using a regular cup just like your brother- although after meals we still usually have to hose you down, you love to play with your brother and keeping up with all the big kids. You are still particular about what you like and what you don't like to eat. You love chicken (in any form: nuggets, baked, etc), tomatoes, bread, oatmeal, hot dogs and anything that's sweet. You like to put puzzles together, build with blocks and figure out how to take things apart (and sometimes put them back together).
Vance you are such a blessing to our family and to those around you. You and Joel are best friends. I love that you are always so willing to share with him and think about him often. (Even this morning you couldn't wait to share your special birthday balloons with him!) You are constantly making us laugh- even when you should be getting in trouble!!- and are so loving and tender. If you see someone sad or hurt you always try to help make it better and are concerned until they're okay.
Vance I love you! I can't imagine what our family would be like without you. You make life exciting and humorous. I'm excited to see what life has in store for you and for all the fun we'll have along the way.
Happy Birthday Vance!
Love,
Mom (and Dad)