Cate is 3!

Cate rode on the local trolley this afternoon,
clinching a fist-full of flowers, taking it all in.

My sweet girl,

When you woke up this morning and I said, "Happy birthday, Cate!" and you said, "I'm not 2 anymore; I three." And you had a big grin on your face. That pretty much sums up how you go through life ... happily and remembering everything.

Daddy often tells me that you're just like me. You're independent, stubborn and organized. You like things to be done just the way they were done the time before. You like to be warned of change before it happens. And you like to know the plan for the day. Motherhood certainly has taught me that children are sponges, soaking up their environment. I want to give you good things to soak up.

You like to read Bible stories, although Jonah is your favorite. You love the Little Einsteins, Little Mermaid, blowing bubbles, drawing with sidewalk chalk, cooking "valicious" food in your kitchen in the playroom, and chasing birds. You laugh often, tell great stories and give the best hugs and kisses.

Three sounds so much older to me. Having you as a 2-year-old has been my favorite year so far. People tell me I will keep saying that. I have no doubts you'll keep me laughing, challenge me to be a better woman for you and your brother, continue to take care of "my new brother Benjamin," and amaze me with the new ways you discover the world around you.

In August, you'll start preschool. The day we went to register you, the secretary gave you a tub of books to read while I filled out paperwork. You were so content, looking at the pictures on the pages then looking up to watch the other kids walk in the hallways to their next destination. You waved. You smiled. You talked about how you want to go to school. As you grow up, I pray you always embrace life like that. Eagerly. Enthusiastically. Willingly.

Daddy and I are so thankful you're the big sister in our family. You fit perfectly with us. Happy birthday, Catherine Anna.

Love,
Momma