Dear Lila,

Today you turned two years old! This weekend we had a small family party for you at Gee and Mimi’s house. You got so many awesome presents like dress up clothes from Gee and Mimi, a doll house from Auntie Em and Uncle Matt, a rocking chair from Grammie and Gramps and on.

Before your party we practiced blowing out candles. It was hard work! At first you got confused about which was blowing out and which was sucking air in, but after awhile you got the hang of it. Mommy may have helped you a little during the real thing.

What can I say about you as a two year old? Well for starters, you are an absolute doll these days. I was telling daddy that lately it seems like nothing but good days with you. You sleep well, eat well, play well and generally are sweet as can be. We both really love that we can be home with you most days.

You have really taken to your new house. I was worried there may be a tough transition period, but you eased right in with no troubles. You continued to sleep like a champ and love playing in your new playroom. You still insist you have a “pink!!” house, and I have to gently remind you that “it’s green baby.”

Speaking of pink. You have turned into quite a girly girl! At any given moment you will have three necklaces, multiple bracelets, a purse and your play makeup on. And I can forget about picking your clothes and shoes out these days. You are a little fashionista and want to pick it out for yourself!

You are talking a lot these days and saying the cutest things. One of my favorites is when you want me to hold you, you ask “Mama, hole shoo me!” (mama hold you me). You’re still working on those pronouns. :) You also have very nice manners and always say your please, thank you and no thank you’s. We have never really “taught” you to say these things, but just focused on modeling for you, so it’s sweet to see that you’ve picked up on it.

Our days together are busy and fun. You take gymnastics and go to story time with cousin reagan, and then you and I do swim lessons on Friday. Otherwise, we spend time with friends at playdates, go to the zoo or museum or just play together at home. You like to be on the go and often ask me “Mama, I go bye bye peez.”

It can take you awhile to warm up to people you aren’t as familiar with, but once you are comfortable, you LOVE your friends and family. Whenever you see your cousin Reagan, you girls scream and giggle while you play.

You also adore your cousin Mabel and constantly ask to watch videos of her on my phone. You love spending time with your grandparents in Ohio and Indiana, which makes daddy and I so happy. In terms of animals, you love, love, love grammie’s cat Frankie. From what I hear, he loves you right back (even when you try to put your jewelry on him).

I know it sounds cheesy, but you really do light up our lives. Every day with you feels like a special gift. When daddy or I get stressed out or anxious about all the responsibilities in life, you can instantly lift our spirits with your smiles, hugs and kisses.

We love you so much baby. Happy second birthday!!

Mama