My Dearest Claire,

Three years ago today I was holding you in my arms for the very first time after a very long day and very long night. I looked into your big blue eyes and stroked your soft little cheek and was in a state of wonder that you were here and that you were our little one. Those nine long months I dreamed about what you would look like and who you would be, and when I saw you for the first time, at 3:50 am three years ago, I realized that all my dreams had become reality and that you were exactly perfect.

What was beyond my imagination is the lovely girl that you would become. Your Dad and I had high hopes that you would be an intelligent and polite child, curious and loving. You have exceeded every hope that we had for you. Your eyes light up in excitement over the smallest things and you are the most loving child that I have ever known. It melts my heart when you tell me that “I love you Mommy” and when you call me your best friend.

Your third year has been a big year for you. You became a big sister to Madeline and I love to see you two play together. You treat her with such love and gentleness, and don’t mind…too much…when she likes to play with your Kitty and Otto. You share with her, and I know she adores and looks up to her big sister.

In May you got your tonsils and adenoids out and had ear tubes put in your ears. The surgery was quick and fast and although the recovery was rough you were such a trooper and were such good girl!

This year you have learned so many things…how to use the potty all by yourself, how to write your name, how to draw pictures of people and “frogs” and you learned to count all the way to 35! Daddy and I are amazed everytime you show us that you know something new — we are so happy that you have a love of learning just as we both do. Even since you started preschool a few weeks ago we can see how your world is exploding in front of you. We love it when you play imaginary games with us and make up stories about lions and tigers and other special animals. You have learned to ride a tricycle, do a somersault and skip. You know how to put your shoes on and you can wash your hands all by yourself with the help of your Dora stool.

You still love to cuddle with Kitty and Otto and your new Pink Puppy. You love to read books and color and even watch Dora. You sing CONSTANTLY, songs we know and songs we don’t know. You remind us always when we forget to pray before meals and you’ve mastered the Sign of the Cross. Last night you said your own prayer before bed, instead of Angel of God, you did a very cute hybrid between Hail Mary and The PLedge of Allegiance.

Claire, you are our amazing little girl. And we are so blessed and lucky to have you in our lives. Daddy and I love you always and forever. Have a wonderful birthday.

– Mommy

PS Thanks for the idea Jen! Happy Birthday Ben!!!