on the eve of your 2nd birthday...

to my beautiful, headstrong, cuddly little girl,

you cannot believe all that you have taught me in these two short years. i have learned a bit of humility, which comes in handy when there is a meltdown in public and no matter how much i plead with you your tears seemingly overshadow everything. i have learned take a step back and enjoy each day even if it means there is dirty laundry in the basket and crumbs to be vacuumed (just a little though, because i cannot stand the thought of things needing to be done and just sitting there). you have taught me to hold on tight to every step you take developmentally because i know all too well that in the blink of my eye you will be all grown up and no longer want or need me to rock you a little bit before bed each night. although i try my hardest to remain steadfast in my parenting and not let you get away with more than your brother ever did, once in a while you catch me at a weak moment and i cave.

i love how each morning you insist on sitting on my lap while you watch your show. how even though i would never not give you the same thing i gave jack, you make sure to let me know you want it too over and over until i finally give it to you. how you play so nicely with your dolls, always making sure to cover them with a blanket and feed them. how despite my thinking i could fool you, you are no fool when it comes to your lovey and you immediately knew the imposter, threw it down and said "wrong one!" how even though we drop jack off at school all the time you still ask where he is and when he'll be home. how you sing along to all the songs and make the cutest little face while doing it.

happy birthday daley olivia!

i love you to the moon and back....

love, mama