Charlie Sue. It’s your third birthday today, and I can hardly believe it.
Somehow our last baby is three. And it feels like we’re all moving into a new phase of life together.
At some point this year you left toddler-hood behind, and started telling jokes, singing, dancing, and twirling through the world.
Your energy is infectious. You laugh SO. BIG. In a deep old man voice that gets everyone laughing along with you.
You smile with a twinkle in your eye.
You jump in with both feet. You want to try anything and everything, and you want to do it on your own.
Your fashion sense is epic. And you choose your own hair bow, to go along with your own self-styled outfits every dang day.
You love pink, sparkles and Minnie Mouse (so. much. Minnie Mouse.). But you also love playing in the dirt, and wrestling with your brother.
You look just like your Grandma, but I sometimes see your dad in your eyes, and hear me in your words.
And tonight, when I was rocking you in your chair, singing our song, and giving you your last two-year-old kisses, I started thinking about a few things I want you to know, sweet girl, on your third birthday:
You’re magic. Pure magic. Embrace it.
You have a joy that other people feel. You don’t owe it to anyone, but know that when you share it, it truly is a gift.
You are loving. When you wrap those sweet chunky arms around someone, the arms that haven’t quite stretched out and lost their baby rolls, it’s a balm for the soul.
You are Strong and Kind. And as you grow into a sweet and feisty young girl, I want you to remember that your “No” is your right. It holds as much power as anyone elses. But, sweet girl, so does your “Yes”.
Follow your path. Stand up for what is right. Say “No” when something is wrong, and say “Yes” to the things that scare you but excite you. You’ll never regret it.
You’re going to do amazing things this year. And I feel so unbelievably lucky to be along for the ride.
Happy third birthday Charlie Sue.
xo
Mom
