Tomorrow my little lady turns three. Over the past 3 years I have become less confident in what I'm doing ... this whole "motherhood" thing has thrown me for a loop. I find myself questioning, "am I doing this right?" even more so than I did when I brought Brooke home from the hospital, swaddled tightly, holding her to my chest. There are so many shades of grey (and no, not like the book) as they grow older-- be consistent and firm but pick your battles. Limit the sweets but if you don't let them try, they'll overindulge later. Does a tantrum or not listening deserve a worst punishment? Time out or just a stern talking to?

Boy oh boy, it was easy when all I had to do was cater to her every need. She cries, I feed. She cries more, I change. She cries even harder and I stand up and rock her back to sleep.

Not anymore.

These days are filled with lots of chitter chatter (the girl can't stop talking), constant pushing of boundaries, testing limits and stretching my patience to the very brim.

And in every moment I count myself to be so incredibly blessed to not only know such a crazy, vivacious and amazing little person like Brooke, but I get to be her mom.

In the past three years I haven't cried so hard, gotten so little sleep, worried so much, been so strict or loved so deeply. I can't believe my little love will be three tomorrow.

Little girl, I can't wait to see what great things you will do with your life. I just know you will take your dad and I on a wild ride and we are so excited. Happy (early) birthday ♥