Here we are again - once again it is your Birthday! This has been a very busy year for us. You started walking on 4th of July - and you have been on the go ever since.
You continue to love all things water - the ocean, the pool, the tub - - if it is wet you are cannot wait to get into it! You started taking swim lessons when you were about 4 months old. In September your teacher kicked me out of the pool and it didn't bother you even a little - you are happy to just walk in with or without me!
You are also quite the thrill-seeker. Last summer your cousin Kate sent you down the big kid slide at the playground and since that day you have had no interest the "baby" side of playgrounds. While it scares me - I am thrilled at your confidence. You love to run and climb - you are always on the move (even in your sleep).
This was a year of big changes for us. In September, we moved to a new house. You immediately felt comfortable in your new surroundings and couldn't wait to explore the house and yard. There are a lot of kids in the neighborhood and your cousins are nearby. I am so eager to see you grow up and make your own friends here.
You also started day care in January - again it barely phased you. You only go 2 days a week, but it didn't seem to take you long to adjust to the change in your routine - you are comfortable there and love your teachers. Now when Daddy or I drop you off, you drop our hand and don't look back at us...you are off and playing. Of course your favorite part is playing outside and in the gym! My favorite part is getting to see the art work you bring home - I am a complete mush for anything that has your hand or foot print on it. And (one of) the best parts is that you don't fight your naps there. With the changes we have made this year, I am amazed by how flexible and easy going you are.
You are still a great sleeper - and you are even getting into a better habit of taking naps in your crib. Mommy's rule is that you go up after lunch and you have to stay there for 2 hours. Most days you will fall asleep pretty fast. Then there are also days you will talk for the full 2 hours.
You also have the most addictive laugh. I love making you giggle - either with tickles or by chasing you - It brings the biggest smile to both of our faces.
On the day you were born, the nurses told us you were feisty and determined - you prove them right EVERY SINGLE DAY. You like to figure things out on your own and have your own way of doing things - and don't let anyone try to show you any differently.
At night when I am putting you to bed, I tell you that I am the luckiest mommy in the whole world because I get to have you as my little girl (even on the days when I don't think you are so little anymore).
I love you so much!
Mommy
