This solid-bodied, twinkling little bairn…with her pretty red cheeks, and such an appetite for supper!*

by chuckofish

Darling Katie turns 3 this weekend, so daughter #2 is chiming in with a few pictures to celebrate.

From my perspective, the “Twos” were hardly terrible. Katie grew up a lot, in ways that made it even more clear that she is her own little person. Katie can hold a genuine, idiomatic conversation, which means we have learned a lot about the inner workings of her mind. Yes, the “why?” questions abound, but so do fascinating tales from her school day, observations about the natural world, etc. It makes me so happy and proud that those inner workings are deep and unceasing, and also empathetic.

Of course, a central recipient of Katie’s empathy and care is baby Ida. Mamu will recall that Katie’s refrain for days after Ida came home was, “Is the baby happy?”

Ida’s birth (more so, my 2-night absence from home) may have been somewhat traumatizing for her, but Katie quickly adapted to her role as big sister this year. She treats her gently, stroking her face and hair just like I do, and she also treats her like a very important pupil. I have no doubt that Ida will learn everything she needs to know from Katie. (A common parenting “hack” in our household is to get Katie to do something — put on her shoes, get into her seat at the dining table — by asking if she can show Ida how it’s done.) It should come as no surprise that Ida is deeply enamored with her sister, who entertains her to no end.

We love an “OOTD” pic… one year ago and earlier this week! (Pink dresses and pigtails are for all ages.)

So cheers to Katie! Raise a glass of “special juice” (sparkling water with a splash of OJ and a straw) and put on a vintage dress if you’re lucky enough to have one. We can’t wait to see what awaits us as a 3 year-old.

*Elizabeth Stuart Phelps, describing the 3.5 year-old Faith in The Gates Ajar