Can I believe that a year has gone by already? YES! Well, maybe no. Max was born at such a weird time in the world that everything seems off, ya know?
Just two short months after he was born, the world shut down. Covid was a REAL pandemic and a threat to lives everywhere. And Keith and I, with two kids under two years old, packed up and headed to my parents in Louisiana. We weren’t about to try and brave total lock down in a different state from all of our family. We assumed we’d be there for a few weeks, but 3 months later, and we were still hanging out together at my parent’s house.
So Max spent the first 5-6 months of his life in a Pandemic. And he was a total trooper. I’m certainly not thankful for the pandemic, but I am thankful for the uninterrupted time it gave us as a little (and big) family. We had the opportunity to get to know him and love him and teach him.
Big sister, Kate, thrived this year as well. She became the best little big sister. Watching her with him is a true treat.
Life is slowly getting back to normal, but because of all the crazy, we opted not to do a traditional birthday party. Instead we let Max smash a cake and took some adorable pictures of our chunky guy. He is the gift we didn’t know we needed. And one we thank God for everyday!
Dear Max,
The joy that you bring us is unparalleled. Even though you were our happy little ‘maxident’, we know that you came EXACTLY when God intended. This first year with you has be wild in so many ways. Getting adjusted to two kids under two years old DURING a global pandemic is something your dad and I never could have foreseen. But YOU made it easy.
Your big lips and even bigger smile, chunky cheeks, and thick thighs are my favorite thing in the whole world. But the way you love me…? It’s even better. Kate loves me, don’t get me wrong. But she’s always had a soft spot for her dad (rightfully so, he’s the best)! But you always pick me. And that feels magical.
I cherish every snuggle, every open mouthed kiss, and all the tiny hand holding. Every single minute of it. I know before long, you’ll be running (very soon, I assume) and chatting and singing. So, for now, I’ll enjoy the fact that you love to hold me tight.
I am already so proud of you, little boy. I can’t wait to see what the next year, and the ones past that, bring us. You can do anything. Be anything. But I hope we teach you to ALWAYS be kind. To LOVE first. To achieve and help others acheive. To provide for yourself and stand up for yourself. But to protect your friends, and encourage them, and be there for them. I pray you act just like your dad but maybe that you get my curly hair!
Be your sister’s friend, her best friend. Keep her company, and give her a safe place to land. I can already tell that your compassion and affection are some of your greatest qualities and I hope to nurture those in you. Remember to be gentle with Kate. She’s tough and stubborn but her heart is fragile. She’s your built in, best friend! I pray everyday that you never forget that.
You are our joy, Max Randazzo. We love you.
Mom
