Dear Baby Girl,

Today you turn three years old! Three! Already! I can’t remember my life without you. And truthfully, I don’t really want to remember. You brighten every day of my life. Sometimes you drive me crazy, sometimes you talk my ear off when I just want silence, but I wouldn’t trade you for anything.

You are a great kid. I’ve never met anyone so funny, so sweet, so stubborn. Your sense of humor amuses and amazes me. I didn’t know three year olds could have such a good sense of humor. I can tell when you’re joking; you get a little glimmer in your eye, just like your Papa does. If I don’t catch that you tell me, “I just joking you, mama.” You enjoy being funny; you like to check, “Am I being funny, Mama?”
You have a sensitive, sweet spirit. You don’t like to see people or animals hurting. Again, I can’t believe that a three year old could be so sensitive. You run and get ice for boo-boos, you give hugs to the crying, you give gifts to those who need them. Never lose that sweetness. I pray that you always look for ways to help others.
And boy, are you stubborn! We’ve had several sit-ins at the dinner table, where you refuse to eat that one bite that we want you to try. Of course, 99% of the time you love whatever the food is. Goober. I’ve heard many times in the last few weeks, “I can do it myself!” or when going to the bathroom, “Don’t bother me.”

Your independence grows daily. I’m so proud of the girl you’re becoming. It is hard to watch you grow up, but it’s also so exciting. I look forward to watching you grow more in the next year.

Last week I watched videos from your second birthday. You’ve changed so much in the last twelve months. It’s hard to imagine what you’ll be doing and saying next year at this time. I want to enjoy every minute of watching you grow. I know there are frustrating times. I know that I will lose my patience. I know that you will make mistakes. But I hope to cherish the wonderful times because those are the memories I will keep close to my heart.

I love you, my Baby Girl. Thank you for making me a better person. Thank you for teaching me more about love and life. Happy birthday, sweet girl!

My girl at one week.

My girl at 3 years, with mismatched socks.