Update Lilly.

Lilly is quickly becoming our family comedian. She has a quick wit and is truly funny. She likes to say something funny and then, without missing a beat, quickly adds, "Just joking." We love to listen to her playing. She's got a great imagination and if you listen closely you can hear interesting things happening with her little people. It has been especially interesting through the holidays since we've had our manger scenes out. Some of what I've heard? "No baby Jesus! It's Strawberry Shortcake's turn to ice skate!" "Oh, baby Jesus...I know it's your birthday but other people have birthdays too! And some of us, like Cinderella, wish it was their birthday...so be nice!" A lot of "No, baby Jesus!" ( I even heard a "No, Baby Jesus! Follow me!" I'm worried.)
Lilly is getting more and more independent. She's able to do a lot on her own and then is very proud of herself when she's praised. "I know, Mom!" she says, happily. "I am great at a lot of things! Most everything I do!"
Things I hope to remember:
When she finishes going to the bathroom she says, sweetly, "All done" in this sing-song, kind creepy/cute voice that I hope I never forget.
When I tell her I love her she responds, "I love you Mommy. We all love you!" and she throws her hands up in the air like she is making a huge proclamation.
She'll say, in this sweet, soft voice, "Mama..." And if I don't respond she'll say "Say my name, Mama." I then say "Lilly" and she says "Mama", over and over. It's sweet. And bossy.
She has worked really hard at becoming a better eater. She's braver. She'll try a new food, usually just once...but she'll try. That attitude, I think, has resulted in a newly gained 2 pounds. She has been 28 pounds for SOOOO long. Just yesterday we found out she now weighs 30 lbs and she's telling everyone. It has been her dream to get a new booster seat. I think now she could have a high-back booster. She'll be so happy!

I know I complain about her a lot. I have to vent. It's been hard to be her Mom. I can see progress, though. She's getting more mature and I can see a light at the end of the tunnel. There are days when I can't see that light...but knowing I have seen it, gives hope during those dark times. I couldn't, COULD NOT, have made it through those hard times without my friends! Those of you I've been able to cry to, complain to, etc...without fear of judgement, have been more help than you could know. It helps me to put things in perspective. It helps me to not feel alone. I am SO grateful for your listening ear...your friendly shoulder. I love you! Lilly seems so cute to the outsider. So sweet. She is wonderful. I love her dearly. And don't get me wrong, she is so cute and sweet. But the hard times, with her, have been so hard. I'm so thankful I have a husband to share the burden, the tears. I think I now laugh more with Miss Lil. It's good. The consistent parenting, though taxing, is starting to pay off. I must have needed more empathy for others. Lilly has taught me a lot! So call me if you need to vent. I'm now wiser and more able to feel your pain.

Last night, Max asked Lilly if she was going to have babies of her own someday. She said, "No. Just pretend babies...they are easier." Isn't she smart?