Happy THIRD Birthday Claire Elizabeth!

Three Years ago today I became a mommy for the first time. Three years ago today I forever chose to wear my heart on my sleeve for you. I chose to put you first before anything. I chose to love you with every single fiber of my being. I cried when I saw your beautiful, tiny face and knew that life would never be the same. I cried when I asked daddy if you cried when you were born and he told me that you “screamed”. Because I knew that everything was going to be fine. I knew that you were going to fight and pull through and become the strong, independent little girl that you are today. And little did I know that the love that I had three years ago would only increase times three.

Claire Lizzy, I can’t put into words the way you make me feel. The words that are flying across this page don’t do justice to the sometimes painfully intense love that I have for you. The love, the pride, the joy, the happiness – I could just go on and on. Your hugs and “I love you, mom” make even the tough days better.

You are growing up right before my eyes. Some days I can hardly believe that the little girl that carries her step stool around the house to reach light switches and stretches to reach things that are halfway back on the counter is mine. The little girl that flies down the street on her tricycle pedaling as fast as her little legs will carry her is mine. The little girl that asks for “privacy” when using the potty is my almost three year old. The little girl who shyly orders her own drink at restaurants and then smiles that beautiful tongue-in-your-cheek shy smile and beams with pride when the waiter walks away. The little girl who is becoming more of a big girl every day.

Your imagination is beautiful. If I could bottle up your imagination and innocence right now I would make millions, no billions. It amazes me that we can play doctor, carousel, park, store, restaurant, and dance with only our own songs and a blanket. Your mind is growing and expanding and I wish I could have that part of my childhood back. But I love living it through you. You sing constantly and your voice is like an angel. The made up and mixed up songs are my favorites. Please never stop singing.

My little Bug, thank you for the past year. Thank you for reminding me to slow down and enjoy the little things. Thank you for being the most beautiful, smart, strong willed little girl that you are.

I love you more than you will ever know.

Love,

Mommy