four

Lydia Lou:

My goodness. And it's happened again. We've let another year pass us by so quickly. And this year it seems that you've left any remaining parts of your babyhood behind. You are our big girl now, and you are ever so proud that you're "foe" now. You've waited so long to be "foe"! 

My Lou, you are the heart and soul of this family. Your joy is a tangible force for good, and it is amazing what a deep belly laugh from you can do. From the day you started smiling you've been that force - all the joy in the world in just a tiny body. I'm so very grateful for you my squinty eyed smiley girl. You've been my baby for so long, and for that I am also so grateful. Thank you for loving me and for teaching me so very much. I'm so very proud to be a part of your life and so lucky to be your mommy. 

Happy birthday my baby. (For just a few more months!)

All my love,

Mommy

six

Annabelle:

Six years ago, two dark eyes like chocolate and as old as the sea stared back into mine. Six years ago, everything in our world changed for the better. Your entrance into this world marked a better world for me and your daddy - being a part of your world has changed us. 

You are a remarkable little six year old, not so much little so much as you are tall and grown up - both in spirit and stature. Your heart continues to propel you forward in this world that sometimes makes so little sense. Your heart is such a good one - you are a kind soul, always trying to be good, always thoughtful. 

This year has been such a big year for you - so much growing up and learning, sometimes painful and sometimes exciting, but always you do it so beautifully. I'm so very proud of the little lady that you are. And most of all, I'm so grateful for the friend that you are to me. Happy birthday to the best six year old I know.

Love,

Mommy