Dear Toddler,

To my Dearest Toddler,
          Thank you so much for always being so enthusiastic when you see me. It makes feel special. It makes me feel loved. I love the way you grasp my finger to take me with you. When you get ahead, you look back over your shoulder often to make sure I'm still following. You have learned my trick, sometimes I guide you to a distraction just so I can turn and run the other way. You are so smart. Its just that it can be hard to fold laundry when you find it so fun to lay in the clothes. It can be difficult sweeping the floor when you dance in the pile. It is also not easy to unload the dishwasher when you climb on the door to jump up and down. Sometimes, you even try to grab a knife and run away with it. Aren't you cute? Don't worry, I'm right here. I won't go too far. I'll finish that chore and be right back. It helps me move a lot faster having you repeat "mommy, mommy. mommy" at the door. Your sweet tiny voice melts my heart. You won't always call me Mommy. You can and will say it 1000 times today. Just don't cry. Don't fill with sadness or stress or fear. Don't worry, everything is ok. When I sooth your tears away, I soak up the way you hold onto me. Like I matter. Like I am the only one who can fix it. Don't worry, I will. If I can, I will. You clutch onto me with fingers and hands and feet and toes...like a little monkey. I treasure that hold. You need me. I need you. One of your new favorite things to do is smack me in the face or pull my hair. I'm not a fan of this game but you think it is hilarious. I am also not a fan of how you turn into a gymnast when I'm trying to change your diaper. Of course, you also think that is hilarious. It's ok, I won't change your diapers forever. I love the little conversations we have. You understand everything I'm saying. You reply in wonderfully long sentences. In which maybe I understand two words. It's adorable. You are adorable. I love the way you start laughing when everybody else is laughing, you don't get it but you want to be involved. Your laugh is amazing. Your smile is so stinkin cute and contagious.
Today, you used my lavender lotion to paint on the window. It was beautiful. Even better, you smell delicious. It makes squishing your cheeks and kissing your neck extra fun. Your timing is excellent. Of course, you had just gotten out of the bath. That's ok, we'll do it again tomorrow. All of it. Thank God! Please don't grow up too fast little person. This is a time I'll always cherish.
                                                                                            Love, Mommy
P.S. Thank you for all your mmmmmm long kisses and knee hugs!