19

Dear Claire,
I love 19 months. Love. I know a lot of people love a cuddly newborn, but I'll take you at 19 months any day. You have opinions. You say "de-doo" (thank you) when you give us things, like you're trying to teach the giants some manners. You do the sign for cookie when we pull into the church parking lot. You make me laugh. And tonight when I was getting you a final drink before bed, you pulled my face to yours with your chubby hands for another kiss and hug. Sometimes there's so much sweetness, and my heart is so full I can't quite believe that this is my life.

It's not always belly laughs and chubby hands on my face. There are fits of crying and toddler drama. There are peeing on the kitchen floor days. There are days when I feel like all I'm saying is nononononono. Still, I can't imagine me without you. And I wouldn't want to try.
Love,
Mama