Somehow, and I am earnestly trying to figure out how I let this happen, my little girl became a two-year-old today. I'm pretty sure that she cannot really be that old. There is no way that I've had her for two years! 

Regardless of my desires, she did in fact age. And you know, that's really just fine. I am so very proud of her, the progress she's made, and the person she is becoming. It is really amazing to see this kid, that used to not be able to keep her eyes still in her skull, ride a scooter and sing and dance.  

I know I'm a lucky guy to have the two amazing kids I have, but there is still a bit of reluctance to watch them grow up and move beyond their need for you. I was talking with the wife about this last night, and she's obviously a little more torn up about it than I am. I thought about "growing up" and what that actually means. I told her, and I truly believe, that if we look back at the time that's gone, there is an obvious sadness for us. But, if we look forward at all the time we have in front of us, there is an excitement and an anticipation of the things to come. It won't always be easy, but it wasn't easy back then either. For now, I just enjoy today, because there is no promise of tomorrow for any of us. I enjoy every little smile and silly face.  

Penelope is two years old today. That's a lot of smiles behind me, but hopefully, a whole lot more in front of me. Sweetheart, have a great birthday! I'm happy for you, and I'm also really, really impressed that I did something that allowed you to live this long. Yippee for both of us.