Dear Nella,I hope that when you’re older and read this, you’ll forgive me for being so late to wish you a written “happy birthday!” You’ve been two years old for three weeks already, and I still can’t fathom how those two years went by so quickly.

Everyone says little girls are “sugar and spice”, and while you’ve always had “sugar” as part of your personality, you’ve also developed a lot of “spice” lately. You are spunky and independent in all things. You want to do everything you can on your own, and you contest us when we tell you that you need to do something our way. You’re strong-willed and determined. 

You love baby dolls and play with every single one we have just about every day. You frequently demand for us to change your baby’s clothes (although sometimes you want her to wear your own clothes, which are comically large for a doll). You nurse your babies, feed them bottles, sing to them, shush them, and bounce them up and down on your tummy. It’s amazing to see how truly nurturing you already are.

You also love your Beagle, who you call “Bah-bull”. You need him to sleep and want to hold him anytime you feel sad. I love that you love him so much, because he was mine when I was younger. You’ve chewed part of his nose off, but I’m glad that one of my daughters can enjoy him.

You are obsessed with puppies. Scout is your favorite, of course, and you frequently hug and kiss her throughout the day. You also love to feed her, even when it’s not mealtime. You are probably Scout’s favorite person just for this reason (she also really likes to try to lick you clean after you eat).

You are a big helper. You are the quickest to do any chore I ask of you. You love to sweep, get a diaper for yourself or Evie, take things out of the dishwasher, and throw your clothes in the hamper.

You might not be “the baby” of the family anymore, but make no mistake, I love holding you, snuggling, breathing you in (you somehow seem to still have a sweet baby-like scent), and playing with those gorgeous blond ringlets. You will always be my baby, no matter how big you get. Seeing you transition into the role of big sister has been a lot of fun, too. You love Eve with all your heart and never skimp on the kisses, hugs, and attempts to put her pacifier into her mouth.

You give everyone these big, LOUD kisses at night time. I look forward to that small moment each day.

You still suck your thumb when you’re tired.

You love to say “no” all the time. Sometimes, I’ll start asking you tons of questions just so I can her you say it softly like you do.

Sweet girl, you’re developing so many new traits and abilities every single day, but from the moment we met, you have had the exceptional gift of giving us pure joy. You have brought so much happiness, laughter, and love to our family. You’ve shown me what real happiness is.

Nella Joy, you will always be my little sunshine girl.

Love, Mommy