Not Terrible Twos

When I was pregnant with our first and quite frankly, terrified of parenthood, I had an aunt (whose kids were all young adults) who told me every stage of parenthood had been her favorite. At the time, I found peace in knowing there would be goodness in every season ahead, but now, almost three years in, I know the same will be true for me. Every stage will be the best. Now, that's not to say there aren't challenges, but they're just nothing compared to the joyful abundance of the current moment.

With Quinn's third birthday approaching this spring, we've almost made it through what's often referred to as "the terrible twos," and let me tell you, they've been anything but terrible. I have absolutely loved spending my days with a two-year-old, and think we need to do some rebranding of the kids this age.

Two-Year-Olds are:

Fearless - Anyone who knows my kid might question me in saying this because we've definitely navigated some fears this year. Just the other day, we had to shoo a bug that was OUTSIDE her window. However, there's a social bravery that I wish we could just bottle up! When we pick Q up from daycare, there's often a hoard of two-year-olds ready to update us (the people they only know as "Quinn's mom" and "Quinn's dad") on everything, from using the bathroom to the noises their dinosaurs make and who's picking them up today. Two-year-olds are unafraid of asking for what they need, trying new things, and being silly.

Inquisitive - The barrage of questions at this age is immeasurable. I am obsessed with all the discovery that happens constantly. My days are full of questions like "What's this called?" and "What's him/her name?"

Observant - Part of that two-year-old curiosity means a keen eye for the world. It's wildly impressive to see what she notices, often well before anyone else. Most adults would benefit from learning to be present from little kids. Not only does she notice things that are visible, but she also notices the absence of things. As a little North Dakotan, she's often noticing and asking about where "that Mr. Golden Sunshine" is.

Joyful - Oh my stars, the joy. Even after having a tough time, it's almost like the default mood is joy. Any anger or sadness is typically felt and then let go quickly, making room for happiness, silliness, and fun. Babies are major sources of joy, too, but seeing this two-year-old get the giggles over a funny joke or work hard to make her occasionally rushed or grumpy parents laugh is such a gift.

Loving - The love of a two-year-old isn't earned or withheld. It is overflowing. And ugh, hearing that sweet voice express love is the best. One way Quinn stalls bedtime is yelling "I LOVE YOU, MOM/DAD" to whatever parent isn't putting her to sleep (most of the time, that's me). We'll let her stall in this way forever. Another loving two-year-old thing I want to bottle-up forever is the hugs.

Quick to Forgive - Being human and especially as we navigate parenting for the first time, we find ourselves apologizing often. It's beautiful to see how quickly and freely forgiveness is passed out. There's no holding grudges, and that's exactly how we're called to live.

Creative - Perhaps because of the fearlessness and endless observations, two-year-olds are incredibly creative. Whether solving a problem (often of their own creation) or simply playing, toddlers are creating all the time. Quinn says "I have a goodea (good+idea)" or "That's a good plan" almost every day. As a teacher, I see children who have lost their ability to problem solve every year. I really hope to encourage and foster Quinn's ability to tackle challenges head-on rather than squander it.

Up until this point, I've found myself feeling only celebratory with each passing birthday and milestone. However, as Quinn's third birthday creeps closer, I've been emotional and more stunned by the passage of time. It's such an honor to watch her grow and to experience the world alongside her.