Let the Rain Come Down

Having just said goodnight to Kaylee, it's a good time to reflect on what a wonderful evening we've had. After an incredibly dry summer, the skies decided to open up and give us an ample amount of rain today. We spent a busy day under umbrellas, scurrying in and out of cars and buildings, trying to stay dry, but the evening told a different story.

Kaylee pulled on her polka-dot rain boots and we went puddle hopping. All three of us headed out in the cool evening rain and had fun. Kaylee hopped in every puddle she could find, from the tiniest crack in the sidewalk to where the water was collecting just in front of the storm drain. When we were finally ready to head back inside, we were all soaked from stem to stern and laughing like crazy.

Once inside and mostly dried, I turned off all the lights and we all snuggled on the couch in the dark. We listened to the rain and told stories and talked about everything and nothing. It was just so calm and relaxing and wonderful.

We have such an amazing little family, and it was so nice that we could enjoy each other so deeply for one evening. I am truly thankful for today's rain, and for my husband and daughter.

Family Day

Yesterday the stars alined and the clouds parted (and whatever other cliche fits) and we had a much-needed family day. With Mike going to school and working part time, he's almost always around in the evenings, but it's been a long time since we've enjoyed a whole day with him. I know that Kaylee and I both miss him terribly at times, but we are so proud of him for following his aspirations and working so hard for us.

It started with a beautiful day and a local festival and just kept going from there. We walked the dog and played on the swings and made each other laugh right up until bedtime. I am so grateful for my little family.

A Mother's Memory

Tonight I had a moment of panic. I couldn't remember the words that my nearly-3-year-old daughter used to say "funny". I could have sworn that they were written down somewhere...recorded for us to look back and laugh in years to come...

But I couldn't find them. I am so lucky that grandmas have good memories. Kaylee's mama, my momma, helped me remember that Kaylee used to say "cumpepper" for cucumber, "pokey-roni" for peperoni and "Cookie Burial" for Cracker Barrel. Thank goodness that these memories are not lost.

It's funny how you think that there are moments of your child's life that you'll never forget, but time is a clever thief. It creeps by and, before you know it, your child is doing new things and there is so much that is part of the past. How can a mom slow time down? How can you sufficiently record the little things, guarantee that you'll remember years from now?

A Letter To My Girl

Dear Kaylee ~

As I write this, you're on your forth day of child care after five months of staying home with me. It's been a hard week...for both of us.

If I could pluck a star out of the sky and use whatever magic it holds, my dearest wish would be to be where you are. I miss being with you, watching you learn and discover new things. I miss going to play group and story time, watching you interact with other kids. I miss how you run to me for an after-nap hug, not wanting to spend another moment apart.

The worst part of my day is walking away as you cry and scramble to get to me. I feel like I'm abandoning you, and for that, I will always be sorry. I have to tell myself that this is part of life and that I have to do the very best for you. Right now, that means working while you are in child care.

I know that things will slowly get better and that our new schedule will become easier. For now, though, we'll just have to look forward to the weekends. For two days we will stay together and enjoy each other, bracing for another week ahead.

I love you. We will both get through this.

Momma

No Longer Stinted

This morning Kaylee got the stint removed from her left tear duct. The process was quick and painless for all involved. Kaylee barely grunted a little complain, and I think that was because we were holding her down. Hopefully, this will be the end of the eye troubles.

As we were leaving, the doctor told Kaylee that she got to choose a toy from the treasure chest because she was so brave. She picked a small plastic lion and said, "Kaylee Beth brave, lion brave too!" I freaking love my girl!

Family Pictures

Yesterday we dressed up and headed out with the goal of taking some decent family pictures. While we did end up with a few good shots, we also ended up with a lot of funny. The biggest reason we wanted family pictures was to have something to share with our grandparents. Grandparents tend to appreciate pictures in which you are smiling and looking at the camera. Here are my favorites...a little silly, artsy, and not really what a grandparent would enjoy (we did get a few of that variety, though).

Two Years Old

My lovely little girl ~

We celebrated your birthday just two days ago and I'm still having trouble wrapping my head around the fact that you are two. Every time I catch myself calling you Baby, Babyface or some other variation on the same I think that I need to stop. You are not a baby any longer. With all your independence and your knowledge and your spirit, you are becoming a little girl. A little girl who has her own ideas and questions about her world. A little girl who clings to her mommy a little bit less each passing day. I am moved by the absolute joy that you exude and feel so very grateful to be a witness to your unfolding life. Simply put, you amaze me. Every day.

I love you with everything I have.

Your Mommy