If I had to use one word to describe Teagan, I might have to use the word "joy." She is a darling three-year-old with eyes that smile. She doesn't walk. She dances. She sings as much as she talks and has a sweet little laugh that just bubbles up from deep inside her. When I think of Teagan, I think of the line from a nursery rhyme, "...and she shall have music wherever she goes."
She is girl to the core. Pink, princesses, fairies: she loves it all. She changes outfits five times a day but can normally be found in a tutu. That's not to say she hasn't picked up a few masculine interests from her brother, but even then she is always the "pink ninja" and fights back with her own special "sparkle power." Watch out if you try to do her hair without some sort of distraction though or you may become the target of that sparkle power. Apparently, princesses don't mind their hair hanging in their eyes.
She knows her own mind. Ask her a question and she gives you a definitive answer, but somehow manages to be an easy going, go with the flow kind of kid.
When she gives a hug, her little leg pops up right behind her like in the climax of a chick flick, and you can bet on her to say something hilarious that breaks the tension in a room.
She is a great shopping buddy and has no problem putting things back on the shelf when Mom says "No." Her favorite treats to bring home when Mom says "yes" are: pickles, doughnuts, and the beloved Oreos. Don't let that list fool you though, she loves to eat fresh fruit and vegetables as much as anything and has been known to cry when she's afraid that there is no more broccoli.
With all the enthusiasm and energy she puts into life. there are the occasional pitfalls. Sleep deprive her and you are in for a nuclear fallout. Her moods at these times can change like the weather. Tears and screaming one minute. Wild laughter the next. A few weeks ago at church, just after the daylight saving, was one of those times. She fussed loudly about some crayon disaster, tears and all, but as soon as Dado found a solution, she laughed, smiled, and went on her merry way. Our friend the theater teacher sitting behind us recommended acting lessons for this girl who was obviously gifted in drama.
Liam is her best buddy and occasional worst enemy. We have finally reached the point where they will get up and happily play together instead of immediately waking up Mom and Dado. I love waking up to the sound of their laughter.
Teagan is a compassionate big sister who loves to make her little sister laugh. As with Liam, Penny can also bring the greatest joy and sorrow to Teagan especially as Penny gets older and is starting to hold her own a little better. I suppose that's the way it is with families.
I tell Teagan over and over that I'm so glad I get to be her Mommy, and every day I find that statement to be more true. I sure love that little girl.
