Two

I'm writing with the word 'two' resonating in my ear with Riley's adorable little voice.  We have been prepping her for the last month asking her "how old are you turning?" It has been such a treat to see her so proudly answer.

I was looking back at some posts when I discovered Riley's One year blog post about all the things she could do and say.  I thought it would be so great to include a list of things she does and says, but am learning quickly that I will for sure be leaving words out, because on the daily she says new words.  I wanted to include a few of my favorites.  I'm pretty sure her third birthday will be me documenting full on conversations that we have the rate she is going.

Currently saying: New words every day, phrases even!  She can sing, "let it go," say"this way" "all done" "help please."

She can use certain words at appropriate times to get what she needs and wants.  She is really good about asking for help when she cannot do something.  Also she can be very stubborn and let her temper fly when she cannot do something.

We are right in the thick of toddler hood and it is frustrating, exciting, hilarious, messy, lovely, heart-warming and beautiful.

Just a short while ago we really starting praying with Riley before bed.  Full on holding hands and everything.  There are nights sometimes where we put her to bed not thinking to pray and she reminds us.  She will reach her hands out and say 'pray' ever so gently reminding us of a tradition we need not fail with.  I appreciate the sponge-like moments like that where we truly are instilling behaviors inside of her that are so powerful and are so life-long.  It really is a two edged sword raising children.  I know we have already made mistakes, but I also know the impact of consistency even at this age as Riley will remind us of little things we forgot to do that day.

She loves dancing, even when nobody else is,
she loves her friends so much and asks to see them just about everyday.
 As long as she is around new people at least once in the day she is happier
Playing around in the garage with Dada and Joe can keep her entertained for a couple hours.
She love her baby stroller and tries to sit in it
She asks to be outside daily
Not into coloring with the exception of tracing her feet and hands
She is much more inclined to seek the attention of males
Her timid/shy intro lasts all but 3-5 minutes with new people and sometimes none at all
This girl is sensitive to noises and songs and really already has a great rythym
She loves her freedom and walking around.  Being in the cart while shopping is right on the cusp of being phased out
Doesn't like slides
Loves reading
Can count to ten
Can say her ABCs
Can say her name
Come on
lets go
stop it
NO
Yes
Okay Mama
Open
Help


This girl is so amazing in all she does.  I am so thankful for another year of health and growth and truly have loved watching her the past two years.