To Leah on Her Birthday

Dear Leah,
You are two years old today!

It will never stop surprising and alarming me how this...

Can turn into this...

...in such a short time. Do you remember doing that? I can barely.

I have noticed, this year, that you are a lot like your momma. It started with your big brown eyes and a preference for fruit and bread. Now I have noticed, my dear, that you (like your momma) would prefer to stay home and play with your sister than go out and be socially captivating on your own. But there is strength behind your shy smiles. And stubbornness too. And a bit of a mischievous streak that your sister never dreamed of.

Oh, it is fun to discover you!

I love your sweet voice, especially when you ask for "mo more" (one more). I love that you sing songs when you think no one is listening. And that you are so good at playing. I love putting you to bed, mostly because you never, ever protest. You just cuddle up and tell me which lullaby to sing you. You can be terribly endearing when you want to be!

I hope it is okay that I still call you my baby girl. I hope you don't find it bothersome that I ask you nearly every day to stop growing. I just want you to slow down for a little bit. I don't feel like I've gotten enough of you yet.

But it is your birthday and I hope it's a wonderful one! I hope you know how much Daddy and I love you. I hope that today, of all days, you know how special we think you are.

Love,
Mommy