Happy 2!

My sweet girl,

I can't believe you turned two today! As quickly as the time has passed, I still haven't forgotten those 21 hours it took to get you here. I was clueless. Absolutely clueless. Young parents and a new baby. We thought we loved you then. Please. I speak for Daddy too when I say, our hearts have exploded with love for you these past two years. I love you so much, it literally hurts... in a truly awesome way, of course.

I rocked you last night, just like I did the night before your first birthday, only this year I willed myself not to cry. And I didn't. You were so, so tired and just wanted to be in your bed, but I snuggled you through your favorite song, "Away in a Manger." Then we talked about what your big day would hold: big fish, little fish, sharks, and penguins. You were pretty excited about a day at the Newport Aquarium, but, let's be honest, I was way more excited than you. I couldn't wait for you to experience the fish, reptiles, and amphibians up close. There is something so neat about watching you experience life.

We got up early this morning to make sure we visited the aquarium with enough time to do what we wanted before you started getting cranky. You were all smiles all morning, watching the fish in the tanks and taking it all in. You talked a lot about the sharks, but was less than fascinated when we actually met them face-to-face. It's fine though. (Duhhh-nuh. Duhh-nuh.)


Fortunately, we made it through the aquarium just in time for lunch at... Max & Erma's! Okay, so this was a treat for Daddy and me, but really, what do you care? After lunch we made a quick stop at H&M in Florence Mall. Okay, so this was for me and as long as we made it to the car for a nap, what do you care?

You're napping now, so exhausted from our busy morning. Secretly, I want to wake you up and squish you. You are a pretty wonderful two-year-old. Daddy and I are always amazed by you. Your vocabulary is quite extensive, including a few of my favorites, "Careful, Mommy", "Not go night-night anymore!", and always, "I loves you." And I'm not sure how it happened, but I am convinced we created the funniest child ever. You are charming, even more so than last year!, but stubborn as a mule. We foresaw discipline becoming a battle, so we taught you a Bible verse: "Obey your parents. It pleases the Lord. Colossians 3:20". When you disobey, we remind you of your verse and talk you through what it means.

That may sound cheesy, but Daddy and I desire so much for you to know the Lord and His Word. We know there is no better relationship in this world than the One with our Heavenly Father. We pray for you constantly, that you will come to know Him in a personal way.

I have tried, but I know my words will never be sufficient to express my love for you. It is a love that you will not understand until you have a baby of your own (when your married at 40, of course). I just have to have faith that you receive it and know, on some level, that your Daddy and I love you more than life itself.

Happy Birthday, my love.