Happy 2nd Birthday to My Baby Girl

Dear Isabella,

I don't know where to begin. I have been thinking about what to write in this birthday letter for some time now. I am overwhelmed, I have too much to say. I can't seem to find the right words. I think that is because there aren't words to describe the absolute adoration I feel for you. But I am going to try to tell you how I am feeling on the eve of your second birthday...even though I don't think I will never do my heart justice.

You are my baby. Maybe not forever, but for right now. And I love that you want to be my baby - when I call you a big girl, you always say, "No, Momma. I your baby." And I love it. I love when you wake up in the middle of the night calling for us. And even though all the experts say not to, daddy and I bring you into our bed in those early morning hours to cuddle, because we know these moments are fleeting. I can't tell you how many times daddy is late for work because you are sound asleep next to him and he doesn't want to leave you. Sometimes we watch you sleep marveling at those long legs of yours. When did you get so big?

If I had to think of three words to describe you, I would say happy, sassy and intelligent.

You are happy most of the time. You love to laugh and play, especially with your brother and your cousins. Your personality is magnetic. People are drawn to you in a way that cannot be described. Those who know you love you, and they can't get enough of you, especially Jake, Luke and Alex. I think you are going to have some bodyguards as you get older. I have said it so many times, but I have to say it again - your light shines so bright, you make the world a more joyful place.

You are a sassy little thing. Small but mighty. You want what you want and you aren't afraid to go after it. You have a fearlessness that I hope stays with you throughout your whole life. Even though you are only two, I can already see your determination and confidence building. You have an indendpent streak - "I do it." Yet if you need help with something you want me - "Mommy do it" (I love that). You "dance as if no one is watching, " yet you know they are and you like it.

You are so very intelligent. You speak in sentences. You know the words to songs and love to sing them. You know your colors and everyone's names. You can count to 3. You have a sense of humor. Your favorite thing to do is "argue" with Pop over Gigi. He tries to take Gigi from you and you tell him, "No, Pop. My Gigi." You use inflection when you speak - "Allie - you gonna be in trouble." "Mommy, I be right back." "Snack....now...please." "Mommy, I scared (said with a shiver)." You always say that you are sorry and give a hug to go with it.

Days go by so quickly and things change, so I wanted to jot down some of your favorite things at 2... Alex, Gigi, Yo Gabba Gabba, coloring "only on paper," having your toenails painted, playing outside on the "pay-ground," reading books, chocolate milk, you say you are going to marry Pop Pop, you love to run to the door saying "I'm coming" and hug whoever is there especially if it is Nana, Band-ma or Finney.

I have been writing this letter now for a while. I keep going back and rereading and rewording. And I must say, I was right at the beginning of this letter. While everything I have written is true, my heart wants to say so much more. But I know that this is just one letter, and my heart shows you everyday what it wants to say to you. The good old adage "Actions speak louder than words" holds true for us. And as your Mommy, I promise to always show you what my heart is feeling, each and everyday. And I must say, you are one lucky little girl, because there isn't a Mommy in this world who loves their sweet baby girl more than I love you.

Happy Birthday, Bella Boo.
Mommy