Today was LMD's third birthday. I think back to how much my life has changed in the last three years, and 95% of those changes were due to her. She is an amazing little creature full of much joie de vive, complexity and downright southern charm. What she lacks in stature, she makes up for with her exuberance and spunk. Life is hers to take by the tail. I for one, have no doubt she will grab it, swirl it around in the air a few times before slamming it on the mat. Anyone who knows her would wholeheartedly agree.

She gave me a lovely present today, too. Those terrible twos and threes were gone today, and she showed all of us what an amazing young woman she will be. My heart melted to see it. I know without a shadow of a doubt she will do me proud.

Happy Birthday, LMD. Your mommy loves you with a depth you will begin to understand when you have ones of your own someday. In the meantime, never, ever doubt I love you.

And oh yeah, you win. ;)