My “Farkly” Valentine

Eloise and I have a Valentine’s tradition. It happened organically…so much so that the realization that I treasure this tradition surprised me. Valentine’s Day has never been a favorite “holiday” of mine. In fact…quite the opposite.  But ever since our sweetheart came into the picture, we’ve celebrated together. I was about 20 weeks pregnant with Eloise when Mike and I emailed our friends on Valentine’s Day to share our happy news. That night, we bought the baby, then known as to us only as “Poppy,” some gender-neutral booties and a little hoodie as a Valentine’s treat. We went to dinner and talked nonstop about names and our hopes and dreams for this little being. Every year since, Ellie and I have staged a fun Valentine’s Day photo shoot. These shoots happen when the spirit moves us, and we both have a lot of fun. Lots of laughing and goofing around and hugs and kisses. Every year, these random, girly, smiley Valentine’s Day photos are some of my favorites of Eloise. This girl continues to make my heart feel lighter every day with her contagious laugh and beautiful smile. And the fact that she confuses “Fs” and “Ss”. Sweetheart becomes “feetheart.” Sparkly turns into “farkly.” Can’t. Get. Enough. Of. That.

* “Farkly” pink tutus. A big thank you to Aunt Charlotte for once again sending an amazing Valentine’s Day outfit! Eloise loves the tutu so much that she won’t even take it off for naps.

 *Mini Shopaholic. “I love it here!” Eloise said…about the Woodfield Mall. We were having a fun girls’ day with my mom. And, I have to admit, after stumbling on some amazing sales, I was thinking the same thing! Retail therapy is legit.

*Ellie and Dorey: BFFS 4EVA. Ellie now has a special voice she uses to make Dorey “talk.” “I have to go outside!” “I want a treat!” “I love you, Ellie!” It’s hilarious. At least, I think so. Dorey…maybe not as amused. Ellie looked at me earnestly this week and said, “You’re my mommy…and D.D’s mommy, too!” Heart melted.