Time, Why Do You Fly?

We've called her "babygirl" since the day we met her. It doesn't feel like that was two years ago and yet, of course, we can't imagine our family without her. She makes me smile...when she is being good and when she is fighting us with all that she has. She is fiesty and funny and girly and tough...sweet and happy and moody and affectionate.

I love her voice and her language. She has always been a great sleeper, but can and will do without if she is anywhere but in a bed. She counts to 12 and knows her colors, lots of letters and numbers. She knows that our family rules are "no screaming and no whining," but rarely follows them. She doesn't like to wake up and lets you know it...and really doesn't love crowds at first. Her favorite sayings lately are "No, Mommy!" and "I don't want to!" in the most pitiful sounding voice.

She loves her brother and loves to aggravate him. She tries to copy everything he does, saying "Awna try!" She is a pro at having her picture taken. Everyone at school says that she is such a big helper and loves to take care of everyone...cleaning any available surface with wipes and making sure all children are buckled in their high chairs. Everytime we get into the car, she asks, "Pees, awna watch a movie" even though it is a rare treat. I love to watch her bow her head, tightly close her eyes and squeeze her hands together when we pray. And she loves to sing her favorite songs... "Oh Happy Day," "Jesus Loves Me," "Twinkle, Twinkle," and "Glory (gory) to God."

She is getting so big right before our eyes. Happy birthday, babygirl! If it's okay, we'll just keep calling you that.