Dear Tessa,

Look at this.  Seriously. Over-sized snow pants, mismatching everything, a snowman without eyes and two happy girls.  Cuteness overload.  When it is 40 degrees in the middle of January in Wisconsin, we have to take advantage of it because that is just as good as spring break.

This was the first time you had been out to play in the snow in two years.  It was also Kendal’s first time ever playing in it.  And even though neither of you could move easily or run whatsoever, we giggled at the sight of one another covered in snow after several tumbles–mom included.  It was the best.

I knew getting you both inside would not be easy considering how much fun we were having, and I was definitely right.  Sweet belly laughs were followed by immediate tears and disappointment when I mentioned the word “inside.”  Nothing a little hot chocolate and marshmallow bribery couldn’t take care of.

I remember waiting for these days and wondering if they would ever be.  Disciplining myself to have patience through hardship taught me to savor the unwritten moments that often take us by surprise. Moments like this…Just recently you attempted to write your name, unprompted and unassisted, while taking a bath.  And you nailed it.  Or times like this…

When you and Kendal dutifully “fold” (and I mean that very loosely) the laundry.

Sometimes I catch a glimpse of you, and I can see in the mystery behind your big eyes.  Other times you are more transparent, allowing me to see and feel just how big your heart is.  “Mommy, you okay?  Need hug?”  Because I am definitely guilty of being emotional around you.  There, I said it.

Moments where you seek our praise and approval.  “Mommy, wook!  I did it!”  “Dad, ah-mere (come here), I make puzzle!”  Or when you struggle to find the best possible place on your potty chart for your Dora stickers after going to the bathroom, “This one okay?”  And we are happy to dish it out.

“Kendal, eat supper.  I love you.”

“Case dog (Casin…yes, sometimes she calls him Case dog)!  Downstairs please!  Now!”  

These odd and hilarious conversations and commands that keep you and your siblings as close as ever.

It is in these moments where parenting you is most rewarding. Because I see the goodness you possess and how it blossoms more and more.  Some of it you’ve had on your own, and some of which you’ve learned from your surroundings.

 Please keep these moments coming.

Love, Mom.