Lock Up Your Daughters

​When our first nephew was born, I found this shirt and knew he HAD to have it! His clothes have been passed down for Lincoln to borrow and this gem was in the mix. I definitely needed to snap a pic of this hilariously cute shirt. I think he did it justice ;)

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Before I took a couple pictures of Lincoln in the shirt, Tim wanted to take one of Lincoln and me (below). I laughed as soon as I spotted Addie in the image. This completely illustrates her recent feelings toward Lincoln. Need I say more? Maybe I should add that she's bit him twice in the last month =(. 

Adeline has been giving us a RUN FOR OUR MONEY lately! I can remember stating at all different stages of her life, "I wish she could stay ___ months forever." Pretty sure I haven't wished that since she turned 2 1/2! She's really well behaved in public (for the most part), but when we're at home it feels like one tantrum after another. This girl KNOWS what she wants, how she wants it done, where she wants it to happen, and who she wants to help her. If you can't guess all of those properly, then watch out. The tornado hits. Tim likes to say, "She wakes up ready to take the day by the balls." Ha. 

I love her gumption and admire her drive, both of which make two years old challenging, but I know it will serve her well in the future. Despite all the drama, she really is a sweetheart. Here are some things I currently adore:

-All day long she states, "Mama, I love you so much in the world."
-She loves to dress up in her plastic princess heels and fire chief hat, usually wearing nothing else.
-She channels the Italian in her, talking with her hands and animated facial expressions.
-She shares really well with other kids, calling them all her friends, adding "That's my girl," or "That's my boy."
_Lincoln is not fond of riding in the car and Addie usually tries to calm him by telling him "It'll be alright," and trying to make him laugh.
-Her favorite item to cook in her play kitchen is horsey tacos.
-She has an excellent imagination. 
-She always says, "Excuse me" when she needs to interrupt and get our attention.
-She often reminds us to pray at dinner if we forget.
-She dances like no one is watching!

All my mama friends say three years old only gets harder...great! When I start to feel hopeless and exhausted, I remember that God created Adeline with a purpose that only she can fulfill. Obviously, he designed her full of passion, perseverance, and kindness so she can successfully complete His plan. Although it'd be easier to raise her sans strong-will, I have to trust that the Lord knows what he's doing. In one of her cute moments the other day as we sat having a tea party I told her, "God always knows what he's doing, but he really knew what he was doing when he created you." 

In conclusion, lock up your daughters and warn your sons!