Where to begin with our Ella-boo… the last three years we have had our eyes opened, indeedy. She is a little force of nature that one. Even her entry into this world was something to be reckoned with – at two hours and twenty-three minutes exactly, she wasn’t messing about.

Stubborn as a mule, you wont win a staring contest against her, no way. Or anything for that matter. She will wear you down with her huge ocean blue eyes, her very cheeky side smile, and her head slightly bent down while she peers up at you. Daring you to make your next move. She’s a clever little bean, everything she does has been thought through. She’s in it to win it.

She has really made me think of how hard parenting can be, that life is full of challenges but she has opened my eyes to becoming a better person, a more understanding mother, a more patient mother, to see things how she sees things. I’ve had (many) days where I just didn’t know how to cope with her, where I’ve been reduced to tears by her sheer stubbornness, her absolute refusal to do as she’s told, but lots of reading and outside help and support has let me in to her little world and to take on a different perspective. To understand these qualities as positive traits, that she will use these attributes to be a success in life, to get the most from life. I am forever learning from her, and also from myself. She is such a tough cookie, being in constant pain the last year with poorly ears and hardly grumbling about it. My little soldier who just bumbles along in her own Ella way (if you’ve met Elle you’ll know what I mean). She doesn’t let anything get in her way, she is a fighter. I have been told (on several occasions) how I wont have to worry about her fighting her corner when she’s older, how she’ll be a success, how she’ll use her determination and will to lead others. Full of character, love, life; such a free spirit.  We have lots of ups and downs with her, but she has really helped me grow up and become, what I hope, a better mummy.

I think if there was an award for best hugger, she would be waving it about proudly (even if she actually hadn’t won it. In fact, she would more likely grab it and make a runner, squealing with glee). When Elle hugs you, it’s with every inch of her body and soul. She means it when she gives a hug, it’s the real deal. If you’re really lucky, a snotty kiss thrown in too. But we do love an Ella hug.

Although, on the outside, she may come across as naughty, and mischievous, she is actually a very kind, caring little girl. She is so full of happiness and excitement. She puts every ounce of her being into life. When she’s happy, you feel like she could light the whole world with her big smile and sparkling eyes.

Our Ellebelle, I can’t believe you are three!! May you continue to grow and show me the world through your eyes. We all love you so very much! ♥

♥