Everyone says that she looks like Robert. But she has my personality. She’s a talker. From the time she gets up in the morning, until the time she finally goes to sleep, she’s constantly got something to say. “Mommy, up. Mommy, big truck. Red truck. Mommy, Daddy, baby go night night. Me do it. My help. Open, please. Mommy up…” and on and on and on. I am amazed at the amount of words she has, and how well she uses them. And when I don’t understand what she’s saying? She just smiles, shakes her head at me, and says, “Nope.” Like, “Come on Mom! Get it together – you know I’m trying to say butterfly!” But always with a smile.She’s smart. So smart. Repeats everything and remembers it days later. Which hasn’t gotten us into trouble. Yet. Some of her favorite phrases are, “Not yet” and “Five more minutes.” Apparently I say those things a lot.
She is 100% little kid. She has no fear. She runs and climbs and rocks and spins, laughing maniacally all along the way. Every day she comes home from day care with a new bump, bruise or scratch. Evidence that she’s had a full day, and that she played hard.
She loves to be outside. Blowing bubbles, playing ball, walking in the grass, looking at the neighbor’s dogs. Need to calm Madeline down? Just offer to take her for a walk. She’s in heaven. But getting her inside can be a whole other trauma.
I can’t think of too many things that Madeline doesn’t like. Having her teeth brushed, eating vegetables and sitting still are all that immediately come to mind. She would rather color, look at books or be chased around the house by her little lawn mower. I guess I can’t fault her for that.
She’s grown into a loving and happy child. When I kiss Robert good-bye in the morning, she leans in to give kisses too. There’s nothing better than a running hug from her. And sometimes, if you ask nicely for a snuggle, she’ll put her head down on your shoulder for a few seconds and pat your back with her little hand.
Sometimes I look at her and think about my sweet little baby. Other times I look at her and wonder, how did she possibly get so big? And how did it happen so fast?
And what’s next?
Happy birthday, little one.
