Next week it will be your 4th birthday, my little princess. You’ve been waiting for this day for months. I can’t wait for you to have your tea party birthday with your girl friends- full of sweetness and fluff.

And then when all of your friends leave, you’ll take off the party dress and return to your regular state – full of contradictions. Tutus and cowboy hats, frilly dresses and construction goggles, twirly skirts and football t-shirts.

I love so many things about you, but I especially love how you dance to the beat of your own drum. Yes, it’s very frustrating when you disagree with me just because you can. But deep down, I want you to keep thinking for yourself and feel strong in your beliefs. It will come in handy as a young woman navigating the world.

I love when you smile- not for the camera, but when no one is looking. I hope you keep the ability to feel unfiltered joy for as long as you can.

And I love tucking you in at night. When I ask you about your favorite part of the day, and you tell me there are too many moments to choose, it fills up my heart.

Happy Birthday to my baby, my kitten, my sweetie, my heart. I hope this birthday and every one after is full of love and happiness.

Take a moment today to send a note to someone you care about. Even if it’s just a text, a quick email, or a call. Tell someone why they make you smile- it will make them smile too.