Month 26

The above clip is my attempt to capture Skylie singing, "If the Savior Stood Beside Me" on video. Skylie and I are both usually much better at knowing the words, but we're not much of performers for the cameras. ;)

Skylie,

You are one fun girl. It seems like you're always going 100 miles per hour.

Your friend came over once to play this month, and I couldn't help but notice the differences in your two temperaments.

For example: I asked if you guys wanted to read books. She calmly said, "yes" and obediently walked to bring me one book. You, on the other hand, shouted excitedly, "I do!" and ran back and forth piling book after book in front of me. Similar instances happened all afternoon, partly, I think, because you were in your comfort zone but also because you are simply are so full of life.

Later you two hugged. You were a bit too vigorous at first and knocked her down--twice. She didn't seem to mind and even hugged you again. The two of you looked pretty adorable.

You still love your sister. If I ever am unable to sooth Kaitlyn's crying immediately (like I'm in the shower, changing your diaper, etc.) you'll tell me "Kaityn cryin.' Kaityn cryin'." Or you'll pat her head or try to shove her binkie in her mouth (which you're getting pretty good at). When you first wake you always ask, "Kaitin awake?", and before you take a nap or sleep for the night you have to make sure Kaitlyn is in her bed. You say, "Kaitin' goin' a bed...Kaitin close 'er eyes."

You miss your grandparents and frequently ask, "Gnana and Gampa? Wanna pway a dem."

This month:

• We went to the temple in Louisville Kentucky. You and I played at a nearby park while Daddy attended the temple, then Dad and I switched. Since then you've frequently asked, "I goin' a temple aday?"
• You visited a nearby apple orchard with your daddy and me and later you and I went with friends.You loved playing in the straw, looking at the apple trees, wandering the corn maze, and playing at the playground.
  
• Daddy and I took you to the haunted house at the Children's Museum. (You and I worked hard reading books this summer to earn those free tickets from the library.) You were too naive to be scared or even think it was very cool.
• I gave a very lame attempt to potty train you, and you have used the toilet. I'm just not sure I want to commit to the work of training you quite yet. Soon though--you seem quite interested and ready.

At 26 months you can:

• Count to 14
• Sing lots of songs
• Use the toilet
• Give your sister a bottle (sort of)

Tonight we took a hayride and I asked, "Are you happy?" You replied emphatically shaking your head, "No, I not happy." Then you grinned your silly grin.

You're a happy girl, and you make me so happy, too.

Love,
Mom