Happy birthday Alex! Happy birthday Nate!

My sweet little Alex,

Holy crap. You are five. FIVE.




You grew up so much this year. You started off the year as a preschooler just starting to vocalize the thoughts in your brain and you grew into a full blown BOY.




From the time you could move, you were 100% energy. This year, you added vocal loudness to your physical energy. You jumped, you climbed, you ran, and you continued to amaze me with your boundless energy. You inspire me every day to stay active and enjoy life's physical pleasures.




You still wear your heart on your sleeve. You cry hardest when your feelings are hurt. You are a loyal friend and brother, and you stop me in my tracks with your sensitive, kind soul. Don't let anyone ever change that.




This year I fell more in love with everything about you. Your love of legos. Your frequent hugs. Your desire to lay in bed at the end of the day and chat about anything and everything. The way you smile with your entire body. You are quite possibly the sweetest boy I've ever met, other than your dad.





My sweet little Nate,

Holy crap. You are five. FIVE.




You grew up so much this year. You started off the year as a preschooler just starting to show your physical side and you grew into a full blown BOY.




From the time you were born, you have always done everything 100%. This year, your personality just got bigger and bigger. You shouted, you cried, you screamed, you showered us with affection. You continue to amaze me with your enthusiasm for life. You inspire me every day to go big or go home.




You are still such a boundless extrovert. You talk to everyone, everywhere - the park, the library, the telephone, waiting in line at the grocery. When something great happens, you want to call everyone and tell them your news. You have taught me how much better life is when you share it with someone, and share it loudly. Don't let anyone ever change that.



This year I fell more in love with everything about you. Your endless need to know the weather. The way your smile lights up a room. Your desire to lay in bed at the end of the day and chat about anything and everything. Your need to be the boss. You are quite possibly the most "in charge" person I've ever met, other than myself.





Alex and Nate,

This was the year your relationship took off. We worried you would always be at odds with each other but this year you grew into best friends. Truly and totally best friends. Because of that, it might always be my favorite year.

You make each other laugh like no one else can.




You *finally* love to do things together.




You are crazy together.



When I first found out I was having twins... THIS... this is what I imagined. I never get tired of hearing your conversations, hearing you laugh together, and seeing your relationship blossom and grow.




I know I have a camera in your face a lot but one day, hopefully you will look back at these photos and see us, as we were. A happy family.




Happy birthday Alex.
Happy birthday Nate.

Thank you for five of the best years of my life.

I love you,
Mom