3 years old

I just tucked my 2 year old daughter in for the last time! Next time I see her (assuming she doesn't start yelling that she is thirsty, needs another kiss, her blankets are twisted...) she will be 3 years old!

Three years ago right now, I was pumped up for labor! It was my due date and she was ready to meet the world! Things were getting pretty intense, but I wanted to stay home as long as possible. Jose and I had just got home from getting foot massages and renting a movie (note: do not try to watch The Hangover while in labor. Like I tell my students, do NOT laugh during contractions, it causes unnecessary pain!). We knew we would be meeting Aubriella soon, and were excited and nervous. Looking back it would have been wise to try to sleep for a bit.

After a few more hours of laboring at home, we headed to the hospital and arrived at 1 am. She was born at 7:54 that morning. Giving birth to her was one of, if not the most amazing, exhausting, beautiful, empowering events of my life. It was such a gift to give birth to her naturally and unmedicated, and afterwards I remember thinking I had never felt closer to Jose. I couldn't have done it without him, and we were a perfect team.

I don't think I could have imagined the spunky little girl Aubriella is today. Just like her middle name, she is a Joy!  She is also the source of many laughs (you'd have to read her quote book!), and to be honest sometimes the source of my frustration! Jose always says Aubriella is just like me. I don't see it personality wise, but I will admit I've trained her well in matters of taste and style ;-). I can't believe at 3 years old how often her and I already "duke it out"! I love every ounce of her strong will, independence, and determined spirit, but oh.my.word. She does not back down. And I love her and admire her for it! Before her I avoided conflict at all costs, and don't think I had ever yelled at someone. Not sure if that is good or bad, but this little lady has stretched me. Aubri-girl, we are going to teach each other a lot!

I could tell you so much more about Aubri, but I would be writing all night! And tomorrow is a big day for us! She has already submitted her birthday requests. First a Panera bagel and has also asked, "Can you take me and Ella to the pink hotel for cake?' Maybe I'm being too indulgent, but when she requests something so cute and sweet, I'm happy to oblige. So tomorrow after our Panera breakfast, we are having a Madonna Inn lunch and cake, topped off with a pizza dinner. Birthdays only come once a year!