three.

how can it be? 

stella marie is three. 

weren't you just a 5 pound 5 ounce little bitty newborn?

and now.....

you are a princess.

our princess.

three years ago tonight we were in the hospital.

just loving on you - our newest little one.

trying to soak in moments with you.

and to figure you out.

i can honestly say, we still don't always have you figured out, 

but we sure know what makes you tick.

oh sweet stella.....

you are such a girly girl.

and yet you fight as tough as any boy.

you love to pretend.

and dress up.

you never wear less than 3 outfits in one day.

you love to be with your friends.

and you think that your brother is the greatest thing ever.

stella....

you don't just walk, you twirl.

you dance everywhere.

you love to move.

you are stubborn and hard headed

and yet your smile is magical.

yes, magical.

it has a way of making everything better.

you love to eat.

you love to snuggle.

you love to color.

you love to go to school.

and one of my favorite things about you is that you love to have mommy/stella days

that of course involve all things girly.

but sweet stella, you are such a daddy's girl.

you have him wrapped around your pinky.

and he would do absolutely anything for you.

you love to play.

you love to laugh.

and you love love love duncan.

you are silly.

and serious.

and outgoing.

and shy.

you are one in a million.

you are a treasure, sweet girl.

you love to be with your friends.

and you are so very special to so many.

and stella, you believe with your whole heart that you are a princess.

and you know what?

you are a princess.

our princess.

and you make each day better just because of you.

we {daddy, mommy, and brother} love you more than you will ever know.

happiest 3rd birthday, princess.