My Bella

Dear Bella,

Our lives are especially crazy lately, and if anyone needs a routine it is you. With so much going on and no real schedules you've had the hardest time adjusting. But as long as your given lots of attention then a smile fills your face.

Lately you've been really into singing songs, whether it is "itsy bitsy spider" or made up songs "rainbow" and "car-a-wat", I love hearing your voice as you sing high and low and dance in the spotlight. Daddy likes to joke that you are my shopper and I must admit he is right, I love going shopping with you and hearing your "I like this" to everything that sparkles. Fortunately, you don't get too heart broken when we can't buy your "I want's", well unless it is a baby doll then we hear your broken heart loud and clear. 

You need snuggles to fall asleep and your thumb is your very bestest friend. I have to remind myself that cuddles with you are often forgotten after cries and bottles for your sister are attended to, but often that is when you need them the most. I've caught you on a couple occasions whispering to your sister "She's my mommy too." I know going from the youngest to the middle child can't be easy or much fun, but although you sure show your dramatics more often, you never direct anything but love to your baby sister. I notice your frustration as you step onto the verge of independence, and it must seem in some respects as if you were pushed there. You, it seems, would have happily played hand in hand with Mommy all your life and sometimes you still do. Wanting to be the closest to Mommy and getting pouty lips when little Sydney has beaten you to it. Life is hard and being 2 is all the harder as you figure out the whys and struggle with the nos.

Before long you will be three and I am already amazed at our little smarty. You love books, and letters (and know most of them), you like to count and pick out colors. Your love for learning is evident, as you gaze with wide eyes when your being taught something new. I hope you continue on that path and the world will be yours to explore. What a wonderful world we have and how blessed we are that we get to help you as you discover it. I am so proud of you Bella your soft nature of loving all those around you still lingers as you gain confidence and assurance of your capabilities. Sometimes I wish I could hold you tight and stop time, I know the little things that drive me crazy now, I will miss years from now and I wish for nothing more then the patience to remember that you are little and will be for such a short time. Stay little, little Bell.

Love,

Mommy