2 1/2

My little Scarlet Grace. ♥

You didn't get a post when you turned 2. You will get one now.

You have a smudged face in this picture because you insist on doing all things yourself. "I do it." So I (usually) let you clean your own face.

Your bright blue eyes still surprise me.

You are an amazing little shopping buddy, and you know just what you like. "I no like dat." "I want dat one!" You exuberantly exclaim, "Pretty Mommy!" when I try something on (even if it's just so-so).

Daddy says you are all "Fire & Ice." He is on to something. Mommy says you are equal parts "Sweet & Sassy." I am also on to something.

You love to have your back rubbed, with mama's piano fingers.

You, like your brother at this age, like to be told stories. Cinderella is your current favorite. Nemo is a frequent contender for top spot in the rotation.

You love Anna. Steiger loves Elsa. This correlation fits not only your birth order, but your personalities as well.

You hop, skip, or jump almost everywhere. I adore watching you run more than most anything I can watch, or jumping on the trampoline.

I could also listen to you talk all day. You repeat highly sophisticated phrases with a newly forming voice and diction, and it is adorable.

You still love your "banties" (blankies). Thank goodness you are not discriminating against which of the 8 little flannel receiving blankets you hold. Though you prefer to have all 8 of them at once. ♥

You suck your thumb when you hold them.

You're still rear-facing in the carseat, and I attribute the blankies for helping make this as stress free as possible.

You love your brother utterly, but I still don't think as much as he loves you.

You want to sit on our laps to eat your dinner lately. You ate more independently at 8 months than now at 30 months... hmmm...

You love soups and broth. Which makes me really happy because I love them too. You also love broccoli.

You love to copy Steiger. When he writes his name, you must write yours... you make a mean backwards S. :)

You do not have any trouble voicing your opinion, but can be flexible too. Again -- sweet & sassy.

You love to hold on like a monkey, be loved, be in control, be independent, and be comforted all at once.

You have your mama's heart (Daddy's and Steiger's too). We love you little Scarlet Grace.

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(and yes, I am aware I've been gone for quite some time... I'll give you an update shortly)