Teacher.

In all of my schooling, all of the places I've been, it's astounding to me that my greatest teacher of all would be a 2-year old by the name of Henry.

He's been teaching me things before he was even here- during those 9 months of pregnancy, and when he was just a possibility and an idea.

It's crazy to me what I've learned over the past three years, all of things I found out about myself, all of the contradictions and truths and clarity.

Henry's taught me that I am enough. Just me. In my pajamas, playing on the floor, no makeup and no fancy clothes.

That we don't need the newest things, the shiniest toys- all we need is a cardboard box and some wooden trains to run along our makeshift track, and we're set.

He is a constant reminder to be present and in the now. I only get so long with this little guy being so little (as I'm reminded every morning when he magically seems bigger than the night before), and I want to be there for every second- not wasting it away worrying about inconsequential things or on my phone or computer.

He keeps me in check. Last week Hank, Henry and I were driving and Hank and I were having a discussion. There must have been a tone to our voices because from the backseat Henry said, "Be nice guys!" We just about died laughing but it reminded us that there is always someone listening and learning.

Henry reminds me to slow down, to appreciate the small things, and to laugh often. To take a minute and notice the ducks on the pond, to wave to the big semi driving past, and to always make time for a snack break.

He's taught me that I am his greatest example. The other day he was playing to with his trucks and he was "putting them to sleep." I heard him say "oh, you are a good truck and I love you so much" in his toddler speak. He kissed them and tucked his little blue truck in, and I realized that he is taking in all of this love we give him and it's become a part of his everyday. And it reminded me of that quote- "how we speak to our children becomes the voice in their head."

It's amazing to think that this little love is only two years old. I feel like he is wise beyond his years and understands so much more than he is even able to tell us. I'm lucky to have been given the privilege of being Henry's mama, and I can only imagine all the fun (and learning!) that's in store.