the sweetest things

I can not explain the joy that comes from having a child, but every parent knows how sweet and wonderful it is. Every time, I hear Carmen say, in her sweet little voice, "I love you, mama." my heart just melts. It is the most amazing experience being her mom. Each day is better than the last and it is so fascinating to see how she will change from day to day. I love it and can not possibly imagine my life without her.

From last year, but she'll always look this way to me.

To get Carmen excited about going to bed, I started telling her that when she goes to bed, the fairies come and sprinkle magic fairy dust on her and take her away to dreamland. I've been telling her this for about a month now, and tonight, she asked me to go to dreamland. Never fully grow up, Carmen! Always remember dreamland. Follow your dreams and never, ever forget them. Do I sound like Peter Pan? What can I say? After having been reacquainted with Peter Pan, and also observing my sweet little miss, I realize how amazing the concept of being a child forever is. There is something to be said about childlike wonder and the ability to attack life with the prospect of playful adventure. Life is truly an adventure and what a joy it is to see that through Carmen's eyes. I love the childish sparkle in her eye. I love it when she dances and sings. I love her giggles and i LOVE her sass. It's hard not to laugh when she sasses me or commands me to dance NOW or asks me for more cheese for the 10th time that day. What can I say. Carmen is the sweetest thing.