"Is it over?" - The Sweeter Side of Mommyhood

I just tucked my little princess into bed as she asked a final, “Is it over, Mommy?”

Yes, my dear sweet girl, the never ending birthday is over.

Small white lie because I know for a fact there are a few birthday presents that are trickling in through the mail in the next couple of days but that’s ok- tomAYto, tomAHto. She already told a few people she’s turning 4 soon so… sigh. I know.

Today was my favorite day.

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Lilly has been casually observing me photographing Grace “for her birthday” for quite a few weeks now. She’s told me almost every day that she does NOT want pictures taken for her birthday. But today she woke up giving me a run down on who she wanted to be in her birthday picture. Wardrobe and prop choices all meticulously chosen by the birthday girl herself. It took her 25 minutes to set up “the family” in exactly the right order (they got switched and moved around quite a bit until the lineup was perfect). I knew the tutu, silky blankie, pink puppy and the rain boots would make the cut, but I was surprised that the microphone and baby Violet were included in this special birthday scene.

I spy with my little eye, Humphry the wolf falling from the sky.

After a quickie donut for breakfast, we headed to the National Aviary. Our girl loves birds so it was only fitting.

Love these nervous little hands, playing with the tutu ribbon as we watched the bird show- swooping and squawking happening right above our heads.

Though not the center of attention today (Little Miss TuTu and Rain Boots was stealin’ the show), Gracie had a wonderful time with the birds today. She was quiet and attentive and very, very curious about these penguins. Swear to god, if I could stick her in there I totally would. I think they have a kindred connection. Same size and all that.

We let Lilly chose one special thing from the gift shop in lieu of actually pre-buying her any real presents for today. I knew before we even got there that we’d be walking outta this place with a new feathered family member, but a super funky puzzle did give Lilly a run for her money. After looking at paintings, jewelry, toys, and books, she carefully selected a Blue Macaw stuffed animal that she has named (suprise!) Rio. She introduced him to Denver, told him where the two of them will sleep, and hasn’t put him down for more than a single split second.

After a beastly 4 hour nap and a taco-movie night better than most, I can solemnly swear she had a wonderful day.