Abby,

Three years ago today you came into this world a happy little baby with the most stunning blue eyes I had ever seen. After months of kicking, flipping and a few ultrasounds your daddy and I greeted you with smiles, tears of joy and the excited yet nervous anticipation of new parents. We were not clueless about babies or children for that matter, but everything changes when the child you now hold in your arms is your own. There is a lot to teach and there is also a lot to learn.

While we are always learning, the last three years have taught us a lot. You have taught us a lot about being parents, about ourselves and about life. Its hard to sum up into words the things we have learned and what you have taught us, but here is my attempt.

In three years we have learned…

…to smile for new reasons
…that your giggle and the sound of your laughter can make even the most horrible day seem like its light years away
…to not sweat the small stuff and to take each challenge in stride
…that some of the smallest things in life like crawling and walking are part of some of our greatest joys
…that despite being small, its amazing just how much “stuff” you can produce
…that constantly talking to you, teaching you new words would eventually mean that the only time you stop talking is while eating, sleeping and occasionally during a movie. But all of that talking has given us some of the best moments of parenthood thus far
…a new definition of patience
…that being a parent should automatically give you a degree in psychology and make you a specialist in negotiating
…that you have to carefully watch what you say unless you want it repeated at the most inopportune moment
…that you are incredibly independent but always know where to go when you need help or just want to snuggle
…that you know exactly what to do to make us laugh
…that your imagination is endless and that stepping into your world always brings something new and amazing
…that just when you think you cant love anything more, you come along to change it

Abby, the love we have for you cannot be put into words. It’s amazing that three years have passed already but we have enjoyed every moment. We look forward to the years to come and all the adventures ahead of us. Turning three means officially stepping from toddler to preschooler. Moving from diapers to completely potty trained. The start of school and making friends. But I will stop there because I dont want that time to move too quickly. Happy Birthday Little Pumpkin, we love you so much!