The Happy Halfs.

Today is Langley's Happy Half Birthday!

I know what you are thinking. Isn't April crazy enough with real birthdays that you make up more things to celebrate?

Oh, yes. We do.

There are some traditions that I am happy to let go of like decorating Easter eggs.  We tried to be consistent with that for the first couple of years and lately we don't even bother.  The kids don't miss it, and frankly, NEITHER DO I.

Bye, bye mess! 

Bye, bye guilt!

But the tradition of the "Happy Halfs" is one of my favorite keepers.  On the day of your Happy Half you get to decide who to have a date with and where to go.  We keep the choices pretty simple.  Donuts or ice cream?  Mom or Dad?

Last night Langley was almost asleep when I went into her room to check on her.  She gave me a sleepy hug and asked me if I would mind if she choose to date her daddy instead of me.

"Of course not, sweetie."  As my heart melted into a puddle of sugary goo.

She smiled and rolled over to sleep.

Her daddy woke up early this morning to get ready for his special date.  He was excited to spend time with his favorite girl.  Tell me.  Is there anything sweeter than a daddy who delights in his baby girl? 

No.  I didn't think so.

Celebrating the Happy Halfs is a simple and easy tradition.  I love it because it tells our kids that they are special to us.  It creates some one-on-one time with a parent.  That alone time is in high demand with our crazy scheduled life.

And when you are the one chosen for this special date. 

PURE JOY.

Nothing compares to the feeling of being chosen.