My dearest Plum, 

I was about to write your brother’s “Happy Birthday” post when I realized that I never wrote one for you.  Alas, your March birthday – right in the thick of winter and our family’s craziest time of year – means that your big 3^rd birthday recap is 2 months late.

 

The way I feel about you, the way I love you is difficult for me to type out in words. Not just because the feelings are so big, but because you are a complicated and amazing little person.

 

You are my girl.

You are so able to go with the flow. Until you aren’t.  

You know what you want. 

We never have to wonder about what you’re feeling, though I often wonder what you’re thinking.

You have worked so hard lately to understand your very big feelings.  I’m so proud of you for this. And I’m so proud of how you’ve put words to them.  

Sometimes you thrive on your successes, working to be a big girl.

Sometimes you choose to do whatever the heck you feel like.  I love this about you, although it can make parenting you a challenge.

You challenge me, you always have.  I hope I help to guide you to good choices, without tamping down your spirit, your pluck, your voice.

You are silly.  You ask good questions.  You are learning how to be in charge of yourself. 

You are brave. Not a daredevil, but brave. Braver than I ever was.

Your waters run deep, my little girl.  This is so very obvious to me, and perhaps why it is hard to describe and define you. 

I am sometimes too hard on you – and perhaps expect too much. After all you are only 3.  I’m not sure why I do this – maybe because we’re so different, or maybe because we’re so alike.

 

Happy birthday dearest Plum, you are my heart.