how do I love thee?

This year I decided to start celebrating Valentine's Day on February 1st. Every night before I bed I told the girls one thing I loved about them. I was surprised they didn't always appreciate my selection ("I think Lauren's was better than mine," or, "Why did you say that?"), but I enjoyed it. And I think they felt the love.

This is the complete list for each of them:

Ella, I love . . .

1. that you're such a good helper

2. your beautiful hair

3. that you're a wonderful big sister

4. that you're such a good reader

5. your style

6. the sweet cards you make for people

7. the excited way you talk when you're telling a story

8. that you do your best in school

9. your optimism

10. your big hugs and kisses

11. your smile

12. that you're a great golfer

13. your gorgeous eyes

14. that you're always so much fun

Lauren, I love . . .

1. your little laugh

2. that you always say thank you

3. your sparkly eyes

4. how you share

5. that you are so brave

6. that you say such wonderful prayers

7. your spunk

8. your cute bum

9. the way you think about other people's feelings

10. your sneaky look

11. how when you're not sure of something, you say it and then ask, "Right, Mom?"

12. the way you fall asleep anywhere

13. your dimple

14. that you say "I love you" so many times, every single day

Audrey, I love . . .

1. your chunky thighs

2. your little ponies

3. the way you scrunch up your nose when you laugh

4. that you're such a great sleeper

5. that you love books

6. when you put your head on my shoulder

7. that you can keep up with your sisters

8. the way you make a "mmmmm-wah" noise with your kisses

9. hearing you sing to yourself

10. the way you laugh when you get exactly what you wanted

11. your rosey cheeks

12. the way you always look like you're about to tip over when you walk

13. the way you say "mama"

14. your stink eye

xo