On Lizzie announcing her true intentions towards her mom

So, it finally happened.  That day I have been subconsciously hoping for since the day she was born.  It came suddenly and seriously.  I did not fish for it or push it.  We were just getting ready for bed and then the most beautiful words came.  She stopped what she was doing, paused, looked at me as if you search for words and said, "Mommy."  I said "yes?"  "I love you."  She said it with certainty and veracity.  No smiles but much deliberation.  It made my day and my life.  It happened a couple of days ago.

My sweet little 2 1/2 year old (so far no terrible twos, knock on wood) is the best!  Here is my eternal prayer - that I may through word and deed show her that I love her too in the best senses of the word.  I want her to know that I am her friend and her steward but NEVER her boss or ultimate judge.  I want her to feel no judgement and only unconditional love from me.  Although I may at times reprimand her in the future, I want her to know through it all that that I respect her.

Lizzie, I love you too so much.  Dear God, please help me to be the kind of mother she needs me to be. Thank you for this opportunity.