T H R E E

{Another late post, I started writing this the night before Sienna's 3rd birthday,}

Oh Sienna,

A little over three years ago, daddy and I were waiting. We kept being told any day, any minute. Dr. McCracken, mommy's OB, and the wonderful woman who would deliver you, told me it was almost time- and we scheduled a day for your arrival.

I remember waiting to be admitted to the hospital. There was a couple across from us waiting, too. Their second baby. Now I know what that feels like too. I can remember the smell of the room. I remember my sweet nurse. I remember telling myself then and there to bring my own Gatorade next time.

I was ready. I thought I was ready, anyway. For a first baby, you came pretty quickly. And when you arrived, they marveled at your full head of hair- and how you managed to be all curled up inside, giving us the impression you would be smaller than you were. Seven Eleven. The nurse guessed your weight perfectly.

And on that day, three years ago, I became a mama. And you became mine. Three years has gone by so fast it makes my head spin. Your baby days feel like light years behind us. And yet, if I close my eyes I can distinctly feel your body against my chest nursing after your naps at 10 months old. I can remember your sweet chubby cheeks and your baby giggle so very clearly. Three is SO good. I love that you're still such a cuddler. Into my arms, into my body, you want to be close to us. It's endearing and beautiful and I know it will be come more rare as time moves on. You're stubborn and you know what you want- I hope that never fades (just be polite while doing it). You are a fantastic learner.

Your big blue eyes and crazy hair of head are your own. You wear them well. You choose pajamas most days over clothes. You choose giving me and daddy one last hug before we leave for work over finishing your game. You choose ice pops over dinner. I am so in love with you little bug. You're a tremendously good big sister. You love and look out for Piper already. The night before I left our house to have Piper,  I kissed you goodnight and sang to you until you fell asleep. I knew it was our last night with you as our only one. I just couldn't imagine (after a few weeks of adjustment) how perfectly you and Piper would go together. It seems, that you, me, daddy, and Piper were meant to be a family. And I love that you include all of us when you say we are "best friends forever".

Happy Birthday to my carousel loving, sweet, talkative, empathetic girl. I love you to pieces, Sienna Grace Walls.