Trucks, Tiaras and Tutus: Lily turns eight

Dearest Lily,

You are my first baby, so every year I am flabbergasted at how big you're getting, but here we are again. You are having another birthday and turning another year older.

Your day began with the usual Sunday morning where you come in our room around 7 am and ask to watch TV. We said yes and a few minutes later you saw the happy birthday note on the giant chalkboard and gasped and said, "I'm eight! I'm eight! I can't believe I'm eight!" It was classic, perfect Lily. It made me smile.

Today you were a little stressed out by how big this day is for you. For some reason you manage to get a little crazy on days when something big happens. However, you did eventually managed to pull yourself together, but it was pretty crazy around here for a bit. I wasn't sure you were going to make it to your own birthday party.

Yesterday I was marveling at the fact that you are now a 'tween'. I was telling Daddy that it didn't seem like you were a tween already, but he looked at me like I was crazy. He pointed out that you aren't ready for school in the morning, which is nothing new. However, now your late because you're taking too much time getting dressed and fancy and not because you're refusing to get ready. He also pointed out that I have to buy more product for your hair than I used to. You cannot go a day without adding a bit of product to your hair. And of course he pointed out the arguing that comes with being a tween...but that's nothing new with you. :)

Lily, you continue to amaze me and frustrate me to equal measure most days of the week. We can butt heads like you wouldn't believe and then I can turn around to see you being kind and gentle and generous. I hope you know in your heart that when Dad and I are pushing you to do better and make better choices, it's because we love you and want the best for you. You prove to us often that you can rise to many challenges.

Speaking of rising to challenges, you continue to thrive in ballet. You struggle a little with the 'boring' stuff, but really focus and work really hard at being a good dancer. The most amazing part is: you are a fantastic dancer and your hard work shows every time we see you dance. I cannot tell you how proud it makes me that you've found something that is important to you and you're willing to do the hard work to do it well. You are amazing.

You are still an artist. In fact, you're such a good artist that you are now a blue ribbon holder. You won first place at the Kansas State Fair this year for one of your art pieces. It's just another reason I can be proud of you.

You are one of a kind and so special to Dad and me. You are growing up fast and I have no problem imagining you ten years from now, practically grown up and ready to make big choices. I know that when the time comes, I will be able to trust you to make smart and safe choices. You are so great and I'm so thankful to have you with me and in my life. It's a pleasure witnessing you grow up. You talents are just beginning to emerge and your future is a bright one.

I love you more than tongue can tell.

Love,
Mom