Third.

I remember being in the Memorial Union at OSU when I found out that Caroline was just a twinkle in her daddy's eye and a peanut in her mommy's belly. I remember being so excited for Catherine and Audrey to be big sisters. I remember anxiously awaiting the arrival of this little baby, not knowing if she was going to be a William or a Caroline. I remember checking my email every five minutes, waiting to get one that said she had arrived. I remember getting an email with a subject line that read "It's a..." And it was a girl. But not just any girl. It was my Caroline Marie. My sweets.

Caroline Marie.

I remember meeting her for the first time. I played with the big girls while the little one napped. When she finally woke up, I snuggled her in my arms...smooching her sweet cheeks, taking in the warmth and joy that can only come from a newborn. Sweets had stolen my heart.

Snuggling my girl for the first time.

I remember celebrating her first birthday. She looked beautiful in her dress. She made a beautiful mess of the cake and still looked just as beautiful in her jams as she nestled into mama's lap to open presents (with the help of big sister, Audrey, of course). Lina-Loo was the life of the party.

It would appear that sister girl enjoyed her cake.

I remember when she first started walking. She was a "Franken-baby." Arms out wide, legs out wide...but she worked that floor like she owned it. Loo was the light of my life.

Ok, she's not walking in this picture, but she was right before it was taken!

What I don't remember is my girl growing up so quickly...

To my Caroline,
Today is your third birthday. I can't believe it's already been three years since you joined our world. I am so thankful that you did. You make me laugh and bring joy to me that is unimaginable. You love fruit snacks and Dora and love hanging out with Violet. You look up to Catherine and Audrey is your best friend and worst enemy. I love being a part of your life. Thank you for being exactly who you are. You're beautiful in every way. Keep shining, Loo Bear. Love you with all my heart.

Happy Birthday, Princess!