To my sweet six-year-old baby girl...
To my dearest Katie on her sixth birthday,
I can remember the day you were born like it was yesterday. It was one of the most beautiful days of my entire life. As we drove to the hospital that beautiful, warm and sunny spring morning, I remember the bright fuschia of the azaleas and the delicate pinks and whites of the dogwood trees in full bloom that day. I thought of how blessed we were to be bringing our baby girl into the world that day on such a gorgeous day.
I remember so many details of that day. The loud verberation of your first cries and how I bawled right along with you. The gleam of pride and bewilderment in your daddy's eyes as he feasted his eyes on our big (yes, all 10 lbs., 5 oz. of you) beautiful baby girl. I saw him gaze at you with the same tenderness and love that he had for me, and I knew then that you would have him wrapped around your little finger. And you did...and still do for the most part.
Katie, I don't even think there are words to accurately express what I feel for you and your brother. You especially, because you are my first born, and you are my daughter. There are times when I can't help but stare at you, just overwhelmed by your beauty, your absolute perfection...an almost perfect blend of mine and your father's best features, genetically engineered to perfection. You still take my breath away.
I look at you and see so much of myself, but not just in physical features. I see myself mostly in your sensitivity, your strength, the way you tend to take the lead in many situations with your peers and your brother, your boundless creativity, and your warmth and compassion. You have one of the strongest senses of empathy for other people that I have ever seen in a child, almost to a fault. I see your little idosyncrasies, your crazy little fears and anxieties, and while others may see these things and look at you with grave concern, I see these things and think "yup, that's me." And while I would give nothing more than to have you spared from these little bouts of childhood pain, I know that it's necessary, and I know that because of these things, you're going to grow up to be more resilient, more self-aware, and more compassionate towards others because of your sensitivities.
I could not be more proud of you, my dear daughter. Six years ago today, I was given earthly proof that God exists, and I thank Him every day for all the joy you have brought to my life.
All my love,
Mommy
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