The thing about having written in the space since Alexis was tiny is that I don't have to worry about not remembering. I can easily go back to a particular date and see the photos and read the words that defined that stage in life. There's no arguing with the photos and words -- they tell the story accurately.
That's how I know that back when Alexis was exactly the age that Mila is now, she had WAY more hair. WAAAAY more. It's funny because I always thought Alexis was bald. Apparently these things are relative.
I also know that Alexis seemed older than Mila does. There was something about the way she carried herself -- her refusal to sit in a stroller, her disdain for being carried around, and all of the other ways that she demonstrated independence -- they all told a story of a kid who didn't need anyone. She was also terribly shy, so it was a lie of a story. She was independent, but only if she was glued to my side.
Another thing I noticed skimming some archives was that I was very clearly still picking out Alexis' clothes when she was nearly two years old. There are some photos that show a Princessified Alexis, but it was through additions. She added tiaras and sashes and high heals, but her actual clothes lacked in pink and fluff. That was me. I did that.
I'm not in charge of what Mila wears anymore. I may still be the one who makes the purchases, but that girl will veto an outfit faster than you can imagine if she doesn't like it. She specifically requests things all of the time and you better play along. Or else.
For example, I finally found the girl some Minion pajamas last weekend. It's a good thing I bought three pair because that's all she will wear now. There has been much drama over the stupid Minion pajamas.
And all of her other clothes. Every day. Always.
She picked the cat pants, you guys. Not me. Mila. SHE PICKED THEM.
If losing control over a kid's wardrobe choices is going to involve cat pants, I'm totally on board.