Two

Gater is two. This low-key little guy isn't much for being the center of attention (unlike his big brother), so we opted for a longer-lasting, slower-paced birthday celebration. He opened one present each day during the week - getting to enjoy every one. The tent, the lawnmower, the remote control car, the fireman outfit, the basketball hoop (affectionately called "hoop ball"), the tennis racquet - this kid enjoys a lot of different stuff. We ended the week with a very low-key birthday BBQ, just his style. And he absolutely loved it. He also got to hang out with his crush Poppy...

The annual doctor's visit reported that Gates remains in the 85% weight range - no surprise. I'd tell you his height but he protested being measured, and by "protested" I mean that he screamed like his leg was being cut off and then curled up into a tiny ball so that his measurement was less than the last time he was at the doctor's office - and none of us believe he is shrinking. With all of the screaming, we were reassured that his lungs work perfectly.

Gates has an infectious laugh. It sounds like the cross between an old man on a park bench and a sneaky teenager. He loves playing hoop ball, shooting more than 100 shots a day. He could stir, cut, and mix pretend food for hours (he's wishing for a kitchen set to explore his chef talents, but his parents haven't succumbed to the pressure...yet). He throws, kicks, and plays with every size ball he can find. If a toy makes noise or music, Gater is glued to it. And if Dave or Bodie is doing it - no matter how mundane - mowing the lawn, cleaning the bathroom, brushing their teeth, Gates will gleefully follow. He LOVES his dad and big brother. We are SOOOOOOOOOO lucky to have this funny two year old in our family.

Here are some photo highlights of Gater's birthday week...