I wish I could stop time and tell this girl to quit growing. It just goes incredibly fast. Her personality is coming out so much each day. She is the happiest little girl I know, I couldn’t imagine our family without the joy that she brings. She has such a sweet and tender personality I can’t wait to see how it continues to grow. She already has such little motherly instincts that it amazes me. The way she picks up her baby dolls and rocks them, gives them their paci, and kisses them. The way she puts blocks back where they go and cleans up after her brother (I am not joking on this one). It’s just funny to see all those things emerging at such a young age.

Elyse took her first steps this month and all she does is practice walking. Pretty much all day she pulls up on furniture, walks in circles or a straight line until she falls, and does it over and over again. She thinks it’s hilarious when she falls and walks with both hands in the air. It’s pretty much the cutest thing to watch. You forget how adorable a toddling toddler really is.

Elyse’s favorite thing to do has to be listening to music so she can dance. It’s almost as if dancing to music is instinct for her, the moment music comes on she’s dancing. She loves it and it is a sure way to put her in a good mood. So is giving her a stuffed animal. This girl loves her babies.

Her and Jase have been playing together so well. I can actually leave them both in the basement playroom while I pick up upstairs and they just play together. Jase has also taught her to go up the stairs which makes me a tad bit nervous, but so far she is doing okay.

She is almost completely weaned and down to nursing morning and night, it might be a little bit longer before she gives those two up. She is finally staying in the church nursery and being left with no tears. It’s only taken her an entire year. She is also the most adventurous little girl I know. She takes off without any fear and doesn’t let anything slow her down. I hope she keeps that persistence, I can only imagine how that will play out in her personality.

I am so blessed to be this girl’s mama.

Miss Elyse,

Watching you has been one of the most amazing things. I am so incredibly thankful God gave me a daughter and I can’t wait to see you grow, but at the same time I can. Your joy radiates through your entire being and everyone knows it. Your grin makes everyone fall in love and your hazel eyes sparkle when you smile. You are one sweet little girl and I have loved watching that blossom in you. Your best friend is your brother and I wouldn’t have it any other way. I hope more than anything you know how very treasured you are in this family and you grow up knowing that your Heavenly Father treasures you too. I love you so much.

Until next month,

Mommy.