Tales of the Two Utes: A Letter to My Two Year Olds

Dear Tanner & Morgan,

Yesterday you both turned two years old. It is so hard to believe that in the blink of an eye - you're no longer my babies. You are very independent little people - who have their own likes and dislikes, and their own way of doing things.

I look back to where we started this process two years ago, and I find it nearly impossible to believe how tiny you were...how very fragile. I remember the nurses telling us how even touching you would hurt you - and now we rough house with you on the living room floor, tickling you until you cry out "all done".

This past year you have changed so much. A year ago, you had just started crawling, Morgan, and Tanner you were still stationary - content to let Morgan barrel around you. Today, you are both running...nonstop. Climbing the stairs, jumping on the sofa - all of the things that two year olds are supposed to do.

Morgan, you are still my indepedent child. You will sit and work on something for long stretches of time until you figure it out. When you are in your concentration mode, you stick your little tongue out to the side - just like mommy does when she's concentrating. It makes me laugh that you would pick up such a small trait that is so distinctly me. Your little wheels turn every minute of the day - and we find it very humurous when you use your wit. You know that you are not allowed to take a toy out of your brother's hand, so when he has something you want, you start to point at things and say "look!" until you find something he wants. And, when he puts down the toy you wanted - you run and snatch it up before he changes his mind. You are a very determined little girl.

Tanner, you are the sweetest little boy that could have been placed on this earth. You do not like to see anyone in distress, and when someone is hurt, you try to find a way to comfort them. Sometimes this comes in the form of a giant Tanner hug - a hug where you run, throw yourself in the person's arms, plant your head on their shoulder, wrap your arms around their neck and squeeze. It's hard to believe that such a comforting hug comes from such a small little guy. And, when your sister is concerned, you always try to find a way to comfort her. You will often bring her Prayer Bear when she is distressed - anything to make her feel better. Your tenderness amazes me.

I love to watch the two of you interact - it's one of those unique things that twin parents get to enjoy. I've seen everything from full blown punches, kicks, and bites -to unprovoked kisses and hugs. You reserve a love for your twin that many of us will never know. Tanner, even though Morgan may not show it, whenever you are out of her sight, she calls out for you "Tanner, Tanner" until she sees you again. Morgan, your brother shows his love each and every day...whether through a hug or bringing you your beloved Prayer Bear, he is always trying to make you feel better. I hope that this love continues to grow, and you will continue to protect each other - especially when Mommy & Daddy cannot.

It has been a fun year to watch you grow and learn. To watch you master the milestones that we one time wondered if you would make. To think about the future and what our little people will end up doing. I look forward to the next year - listening to your speech grow, watching you build your confidence, and letting you start to stretch your wings.

Just promise...don't grow up too quickly on me...

Love,
Mommy

Tanner at birth, 2 lb 3.1 oz....