Beautiful Beatrix tumbled into the terrible twos today. (She had an early, running start a couple months ago).

I guess it was a quiet day (as days go for a toddler). The hardest part was giving up her pacifier. But she didn’t complain. Not once. She had some tough moments, times when you could see the want in her eyes, but she didn’t even call for her “coo-coo” once. She’s like her mom, a deeply rooted tree once her mind is set. She’ll be ok.

Thankfully, I got to spend a few moments with her. Alone. Everyone asleep, just us two night owls watching the Broncos game, eating popcorn, practicing our illegal procedure calls. Saying, “Go Broncos!” “Touchdown!” “Awe man!” and singing, ABC’s, Itsy-bitsy Spider, and Twinkle Twinkle Little Star.

How blessed am I to have these moments?

Twelve years ago we two became one.
Today, we are one with many blessings. Together counting each blessing with love, patience, and grace.
Not every moment has been perfect, not every day a joy. But each day has made us more perfect for each other while we practice looking to God for our happiness and peace.

She is still my beautiful bride. She still awes me, inspires me, and makes me blush. She tests me and makes me stronger. She corrects me and makes me more tender. She is my pearl. My treasure. And I still long to protect her and share her with the world.

I love her.