I have recently experienced that which a gazillion other parents around the world have heard, but which was so special I was sure there should be fireworks to mark the occasion or at least a few streamers. Yes, my daughter uttered those magical three words. I was getting her dressed one morning, I leaned down and told her I loved her and then she said it, I love you.Forget the fact that five minutes later she also said with just as much enthusiasm I love boats. It was one of those precious times that I can still picture with immense clarity. Not to mention the fact that I still get the warm fuzzies whenever she says I love Mum.
So to mark the event, seeing there are no fireworks or streamers forthcoming, here are my I love you for you my beautiful 18 month old .
I love the way you rock your torso left and right, like a little dolly, when you dance.
I love the way you call night night as I reluctantly leave your room at night.
I love the way you laugh with Dad and me when we all have pillow fights.
I love the way you smile up at me when I read to you and when I play you the kitten song on the piano.
I love the way you hand me a toy to tell me you want me to play.
I love the way you find such hilarity in covering my toes in sand, especially when they magically appear again.
I love the way you make sure everyones included in everything we do.
I love the way you put such expression into what you say.
I love the way you splash in the waves and your giggles when you splash Dad and me too.
I love the way you bring such joy even when the days been shitty.
I love the way you find such wonder and fun in nature.
Most of all, my daughter dear, I love the way that you are you.