To My Baby:

Dear Baby Girl:

This post is 10 days late...will you forgive me? The world seemingly stopped when we lost your Uncle Verd just a couple of days before your birthday.

February 2nd, 2011 passed in a blur of tears and broken hearts, no one felt like celebrating a birthday...but today, we will celebrate you.

You and the amazing way you have blessed our lives since you entered this world three years ago. The tiny little bundle that you were, came blazing into this world and captured our hearts the moment we laid eyes on you.

Bull-headed from the get go, you've always known what you want, how you want it, and who you want it from.

Your blue eyes sparkle with the joy and silliness that only a toddler can possess. Not too very long ago, you wanted absolutely NOTHING to do with snuggling...when bedtime came, you didn't want to rock or snuggle or sing or read; you just wanted to go "nigh-nigh" in your crib.

That, however, changed the instant we put you in a big girl bed...you are now the world's most snuggly little girl. You still want to "rub" our shirts, oftentimes reaching down the neck of a sweater or sweatshirt in search of that jersey knit t-shirt beneath. In fact, you often demand, "Take it off!" if daddy or I are not wearing a shirt that is suitable to your rubbing!

You are fabulous, my love. I lay beside you at night and stare at you, marveling in how blessed we are to have you. You have proven to be a soothing balm for our broken hearts as we miss Uncle Verd.

Your hugs, innocent questions, and spontaneous "I love you!"s bring light to our lives when we need them most.

Happy 3rd Birthday (10 days late) my beautiful girl! I pray that we prove to be the best parents you could ever dream to have gotten "stuck" with!

I love you, my girl.

Love,

Your Mama