My sweet, strong-willed, independent Gracie.... at 16 months you are a girl who knows your own mind. When you see something you want to do, you don't stop until you're doing it. And though I might get frustrated with your stubbornness at times, you instantly make it better with the countless hugs and kisses you give throughout the day. There is nothing better than you putting your arms out for a hug and then, when I pick you up, the way you snuggle your head right into the crook of my neck and pat my back to make sure I know I'm getting a hug and not just a quick cuddle.

For some reason your favourite song is Happy Birthday and we hear it all day long. You also have a bit of a shoe thing going on. The minute you're in your carseat you take them off. And when we've been playing outside for a few minutes, you sit down and pull them off, walk around barefoot for a little while and then come back and do your best to get them back on.

I love you so much baby girl. We're so blessed to have you in our family and I'm so thankful for the way you keep all of us laughing.