23 going 24

In a few days, Lucas will turn 2 years old.  Wow--I still find it hard to believe that I now have a toddler. Although I have to deal with his being a toddler every single day.

Charles and I felt that Lucas has probably grown intellectually and psychologically more in the last two months than ever before.  It's like he matured all of a sudden--almost overnight.

He explores a lot, but he seems to know what he wants. 
He is tired of his toys and prefers to play with mommy and daddy's things.
He clings to mommy more than anybody else.
He met a new cousin, Zachary.
For the first time, he traveled alone with mommy--to Chicago and Missouri to meet cousin Zach.
He's a good traveler. He behaves well on the plane, eats, sleeps and just watches his movies.  The lady in front of me said she didn't even know there was a baby on her back seat until we were about to deplane.
His communication is getting better and better everyday.
He has learned how to make "sumbong", like when cousin Nathan punches or pushes him or when cousin grabs his toys or things.
He knows how to trick us into getting what he wants, although he isn't always successful.
He lies on the floor and cries when he wants something and doesn't get it.
He got to use his binky (pacifier) again with the help of Grandma Nena (his nanny), who often lets him have his way.
We weaned him off the binky again, and this time we are committed to really getting rid of it (we need to keep it away from Grandma Nena too).
He has learned to say "Oh no!" and "Oh my goodness!"
Still loves Mickey Mouse Clubhouse.  I think he'll go bananas when we take him to Disneyland.
He can now count 1-12 on his own.
He has memorized his bedtime prayer.

He is a good kid.  Sometimes hard-headed, but aren't they all?  I couldn't ask for a better kid. He brings us so much joy and energy even after a long, hard day at work.  He now freely says "I love you, Mama" which melts my heart everytime. 

As he turns two in a few days, I cannot help but be proud--proud of what Lucas has become and proud of what I have accomplished so far as a parent.  It wasn't easy and I know it will only get harder, but at the end of the day I look at Lucas and I will always have something to smile about. And this is what matters to me the most.