Dear Alexis,

Oh, Short Stuff. I know I already wrote you a little letter this week, but I caught you doing something that simply must be addressed. Here, look:

Now Alexis, that is some seriously impressive coloring. You picked the right colors, you kept things neat, you even stayed in the lines. Ariel has the just right bright red hair, her lips are a pretty pink, her eyes are a familiar blue. Every detail has been considered, right down to her earrings matching her dress. It's all so very . . . perfect.

You're three.

You stayed in the lines.

In fact, for a few months now, you've been consistently coloring inside the lines.

What the hell, kid? YOU'RE THREE. If ever there is a time in life that you are allowed to be all wild and crazy with your coloring, NOW IS IT.

Quit being an OCD little freak and live a little. Please?

Thank you!

Love,

The Momma Who Wants You to Learn that Sometimes It's OK to Bend the Rules a Little