Happy 2nd Birthday, Harper, love

Dear Harper,

So, here we are, another year later. The second year was so much different than the first. You were just barely walking without assistance by the time you turned one. But before we knew it you were running, letting yourself into all of our rooms, reaching on top of our counters, taking care of dolls, throwing balls for Beaux to fetch, and making all kinds of messes. You were the chill, happy baby who observed everything from a distance—now you’re the toddler who, depending on your mood, is either the belle of the ball of the wall flower. Last year, you didn't talk or even laugh really. Now you are the most talkative kid—no, the most talkative human being on the planet. You go to sleep talking, and you wake up finishing the conversation you started, and you laugh about everything. I mean everything!!! 

You have a big personality!!  Let’s just say, you know what you want, and when and how you want it. You are very authoritative and communicative—two traits that will make you a great leader in whatever field you decide to have a career in. Even when it gets difficult at times (for us), because you’re still too young to clearly articulate your wants and needs, but old enough to put your foot down (among other things) when you’re not getting them fulfilled, daddy and I are able to take a step back and laugh (most of the time). Laughter is the only way sometimes…

Karma is a funny thing, and I’m pretty sure we both had this coming, but I digress...

You are so much fun to be around; your passion for life is contagious. Take, for example, your love of the outdoors—you want to spend every afternoon at the park "paying" which is why we had your birthday party there, today! It turned out perfect in every way, and you were so happy to see all your friends and family, everyone you love so much. Nothing could've made me happier.

As much as you love Frozen and the YouTube video, Badanamu, there’s no place you’d rather be than outside, at the park, or taking walks around the neighborhood, as long you’re “Outside? Outside? Ouuutsiiiiide!”

You are so independent: We no longer feed you. We no longer have to brush your teeth for you—you insist on brushing your own teeth, with your own toothbrush(es) (as well as ours, too). And now you’re even starting to read books on your own. Your favorite saying is "I got it!"

I am the luckiest and proudest mom of the most beautiful and hilarious two-year-old. Everything I do in life, I do for you. (Please remember that the next time you throw a fit or a toy at my head.) There will be times in your life that you will probably hate me for nudging you or keeping you from doing something you want but please know that I have the best intentions; my job as your mom is to protect you and keep you safe.

My wish for your birthday is that you will stay as sweet as you are today, and happy, and healthy always.

Happy second birthday—I love you more than you’ll ever truly know.

Love,
Momma