20 Months

Dear Sarah,

How is it possible for one little girl to completely dazzle and exasperate us at the same time? You march around like a baby general - arms clasped behind your back or pointing at the intended target, barking orders to "Go! Go! Go!" But then you flutter your eyes in a beseeching manner and say "Pease" with a sweet smile. It is quite the combination!

I really want to snuggle you and cover you in kisses nonstop. However, it seems that Daddy and I have cloned ourselves. Max definitely inherited Daddy's cuddly gene, while you are always trying to scurry away to another activity like Mommy. Reading is the only time you are willing to sit still on my lap and that is dependent upon you being allowed to choose the book. That's the real reason I read to you all the time - snuggling is my ulterior motive!

Trying to escape!

Despite having another child, I am still amazed by your development. It is incredible to watch you learn new skills and comprehend new experiences. You adore Sparkle. Each morning you look for him in the place he was on the previous day, then laugh and clap at his new hiding spot. When we rode the Polar Express I was worried about the late hour and whether you would be cranky or difficult to manage on a train. Nope, you enjoyed the trip at least as much as your brother if not more. When children lined up to walk through the car singing, Max was to shy to join in, but our Sarah wasn't going to miss the party! Your confidence astounds me.

Sarah, you have an inventive mind. Faced with the dilemma of carrying mulitple objects and babies at once, you used the crocodile mask as a baby carrier.

Your love affair with bags continues and your current beaded favorite always holds the same three items: Scully the Parrot, Jake the Neverland Pirate, and a yellow wooden school bus. You find the most interesting places to stash your goodies - a milk cup in the potato basket, sleeves of crackers lined along the freezer handle, and so on. 

Matching clothes with Max is also an obession. Aunt Stephanie sent identical sets of pajamas for both of you. Whenever you are wearing them, you pat the penguin on front and say, "Max? Match?". Then you run into his room to check and see if he is wearing his. Unfortunately, there aren't many matching options for an older boy/younger girl, but I'm glad to see your enthusiasm! 

You are such a precious gift to this family. We adore you!

Love, Mommy