Dear Georgia,

As this is the beginning of a new year, and I am always up for a resolution or two, I am starting this blog for you.  I have felt lately that I need to reflect and share with you all of the reasons that I love you, and also to better document your life while you are in my care.  Sadly, I don't remember much of your brother at the age you are now, and I regret that I didn't start this project much, much sooner.  But I want us both to have something to look back on that will spark memories, and for you to always remember that you make me a better person each day that you wake up and just be Georgia.

As a starting point, I want you to know that I love you and your brother more than anything in the world.  Being your mom is the best thing that has ever happened to me, and although I am far from perfect, you both make me want to be better - for you.  There are so many things that I have learned from you, and there are two that I want to share with you in this inaugural post because I don't want to overlook them or forget them in the future.

Amazing Gift #1:  You have an inherent sense of worth.  You are three years old and know more about who you are than I did at 25, or even do now (at 30!).  Something that is surprising about you is that you don't like to dress up like a princess.  You love to put dancing clothes on, but when it comes to Disney princess, walking around like Belle or Cinderella - you aren't even remotely interested.  Several weeks ago, maybe around your birthday, we were walking around WalMart and I asked you if you wanted a princess dress.  You said no.  I asked you why, and in your husky little voice, you said, "I don't need a dress, I AM a princess."  I was blown away.  Of course, I'm reading into it.  But you are so strong-willed, you know exactly what you want - you don't need to pretend.  You already know.  I can't tell you how much I wish I could have known something that basic at such a young age.  You are amazing, and you know it!  I hope you never ever forget that, or get caught up in "dressing the part."  Be who you are, and never, ever be afraid.

Amazing Gift #2:  This is a gift you give to me.  A child's gift, which is the very best kind.  Not too long ago, you looked at me and said that you love me.  That is not uncommon, as you often say that for no apparent reason.  And it always makes my day.  But after you said that, you took my face in your hands and said, "Mommy, I like you."  I don't know why, but my heart actually melted a little bit when you said that.  I guess it's because I've always felt that it's easy to be loved or to love others - but liking someone sometimes takes a lot more work.  It was the ultimate compliment.  I like you, too, Georgia.  And I hope we always like each other. 

You are my special girl.  I'm so proud of you every day, and I look forward to sharing the tidbits of your life with you.  I love you so much, never forget that.  Until tomorrow...

Love,
Mommy