I thought today would be an appropriate day to begin this adventure. Today is my oldest daughter’s birthday. She’s twelve. And, sure, twelve is special and fun as the last pre-teen birthday and all that jazz. But I try to look at today with bigger meaning. It’s the 12 year anniversary of the day I jumped into the world of parenthood. I’ve been learning about it, changing with it, growing into the massive task it is, and learning to love deeper and deeper each day since then. So, here’s to Marlee, to parenthood, and to ever-changing and evolving life and its challenges for all of us.
This is some excerpts of a letter I wrote her as part of her Christmas present:
Christmas 2006
Dearest Marlee,
It’s absolutely astounding to me that you are almost twelve years old. I’m remembering back to 12 years ago and thinking of how Christmas was filled with anticipation of you arriving. You are who made me a Mother. And while I am a Mommy to all 4 of you, no one can ever take credit for that but you. It was you that let me bumble through those first days of figuring out what a cry meant, and sleeping in little bursts when you did, and having the experience of holding a little tiny person that just days before had her house inside me. They are times I will never, ever forget. You were a delightfully adaptable and easy to please baby that let me learn without feeling overwhelming pressure. We had a great time together those first few months. I remember the first snow, and feeling so secure snuggling you in the bed. It was as if I could protect you from the cold outside. It was in those months that I truly began the journey of learning what it’s like to be a mother.
You are one of the neatest kids I know. And since your Daddy and I have done youth group work, we know a lot of kids. It I could pick one out, I still would have picked you. I know the transition from kid to pre-teen to teenager is hard, but you are doing beautifully working through it. I’m glad (even on the rough days) that you are in touch enough with us that we get to experience it with you. It’s incredible for me to watch you plan and organize and rise up to the challenge of responsibility most kids your age don’t even have a concept of. You have the ability to think things through and you genuinely care about others. These are skills I want you to keep around. You are a great conversationalist and I enjoy talking with you. I also LOVE how you still want to snuggle and that would fall under my most favorite times right now. You added the magic of a female buddy to Disney World for me. It was like having a friend there with me, too.
Keep your head on as you continue to grow up. Even on the days you wish I weren’t, I’m behind you every step of the way. You are beautiful inside and out and I am proud of you beyond belief. I plan on continuing to enjoy you on all these family trips and watching you bloom into the young lady you are becoming.
Merry Christmas with amazing memories of our last year,
Mom
