Tess is 4, it surprises me to say that. Four years old seems old to me, which I know years down the road will sound silly when Tess is fourteen and four seemed like a baby. But right now, it doesn't seem like there is much baby left in my first baby.
Tess is so wise, wise beyond her years. Some say she is an old soul, but she is a wise, bright soul. She knows things that older people don't - Tess is kind to everyone. She is tender and caring with babies, especially Declan, who is also her baby. She stops and says hello to older people on the street and she always seems to know which little kid at the park needs someone to brighten their day. She is a nurturer. Tess knows when to say something kind or funny to make you smile and knows when someone just needs a cuddle. There have definitely been times were she has nurtured me when I needed it and I believe she will always have this quality.
Tess also has confidence. A confidence and strength within her to try new things and persevere in things that are difficult and different from what her friends are doing. I watch her try little and big things every day - piano lessons, going to see plays, or simply trying to master a somersault. She knows to try hard and not to give up already. This has always been a trait that I prayed and hoped for in my children since the moment I found out I was pregnant, so it makes my heart swell that she has shown us this at such an early age. I truly hope that it stays with her as she grows and learns.
Tess is inquisitive and has been since she could talk. As you know, Chris has the answer to almost everything, and most of the time, he knows more about a subject than you have time to listen to, but not Tess, she has all the time in the world to listen and learn. Listening to Tess and her dada's conversations gives me so much joy. I know Tess has learned a lot from us, but we have learned so much from her too. She makes everyone in her life who takes the time to answer her questions really think about things and want to learn more right along with her. Tess challenges and pushes her dada and I and always, always wants to know more. Some of the things Tess knows about already - the solar system, the way our bodies work, or why people are different from one another - she has asked about and we simply give her the information, and her curiosity pushes the conversation. Her mind amazes us every day.
Tess has the sweetest heart of any kid I know and I am extremely blessed to be her mama.
Newborn Tess:
5 months:
1 year :
2 years:
3 years:
Today:
