A Tribute to Tenley (Jaxon's best bud)

Back in March, I took Jaxon to Gymboree at our local mall so he could try out the "Play and Music" program. We got one free trial day and he really had a good time. Additionally, we met a really nice mom and daughter also there for their free trial - Michelle and Tenley Park.

Since that day, Jaxon and Tenley have become attached at the hip and are best buds. The kids are about 2 months apart in age. Tenley just turned 2 on the 13th of September and is in full "Terrible Two's" mode. See their blog for proof (www.yoichoichoi.blogspot.com). Michelle and I have toured large areas of So Cal with the kids in tow. We're constantly seeking out the best places to take kids to run amok and have a good time. So far they've visited parks, fairs, malls, fountains, Disneyland (multiple times), petting zoos, asian markets, merry-go-rounds, ferris wheels, and many a restaurant. All have been a great time!

Needless to say, Michelle and I have become very good friends as well and I have to say, she probably the best thing that has happened to me since we moved down to So Cal. She has given me the mom-friend that I so badly needed and was praying for. It is so nice to have someone who is going through the same things with their kid and works as a sounding board to bounce things off of in times of uncertainty. So, thanks Michelle for being such a great friend and companion. I wouldn't trade our friendship for anything in the world!

Anyway, back to Ten and JT....these two are alike in so many ways but also different. Ten is very spicy and fiesty. Jaxon tends to be more laid back about things. The kids also love to torture each other, much like a brother and sister. Tenley will touch him incessantly in the back seat of the car, just to annoy him and Jaxon loves to take a toy and run away with it when he knows that Tenley wants it. It is pure joy to watch the two of them get along so well and have a good friend - even at the tender age of 2.

The other night, I mentioned Tenley's name and Jaxon went running to the front door thinking that his friend was waiting for him outside. After crying and pointing to the door, He was crushed when I opened it and no one was outside to greet him. I was amazed that his little mind was able to comprehend this whole scenario and that he was actually sad and disappointed when Tenley wasn't on the other side of the door.

So, to Tenley from Jaxon, thank you for being such a good friend and I love you!