This is the year he grows a personality

This is the year he finally talks.
This is the year he runs and jumps.
This is the year he rides a scooter.
This is the year he swims in mud puddles.
This is the year he chooses Grandpa over everyone.
This is the year he makes goo goo eyes at strangers.
This is the year he loves babies and dogs.
This is the year he masters the art of the mess.
This is the year he learns comedic timing.

Keith- May 2007
One month old.

He was born to be a little brother. He was born to be a Keith. He was born to be Kevin's mini-me. He was born to be loved by this mama.

Dear Keith Fox Callahan,
You, my son are truly a treasure. You brighten a room with your charm and your smile. Disciplining you is a practice in self-control. Daddy and I laugh over your head as you pout and growl and display your trademark antics.

Sometimes people think I am exaggerating about the extent of your personality. Until they meet you and then they are floored by you and everything you offer.

At night as you sleep you usually call out my name. Sometimes it is a question, other times it is a statement, often it is just a word. My ears automatically turn to hear the problem, the request. But I only hear a sigh. I think of it as you reassuring me that you still need me, because even though you learned how to say "self", you also know how to say "help." And that my little kamikaze sums it up. I will always be here to cheer you on when you do it your "self" or step in when you need a little "help".

I know your independence all too well. Your fearlessness is a bit foreign but the independence I totally get. As long as you remember to use your smarts before your charms, I'll be happy. Happy 2nd birthday my little wonder boy.

I love you.
Mama Lou