Nine

Dear E,

You are nine today. This is hard for me to believe. Time has gone so fast.

Just as you've grown taller and your hair has grown longer - you didn't have any for the longest time - your heart has also grown bigger. You have such a caring spirit and you love more and better than anyone I know. This love is evident in your prayers and in your desire to help those who are less fortunate than yourself.

This sensitivity that helps you love more also makes it easier for you to be hurt. I worry about how the big hurts in life will affect you and I pray that God will find a way to protect your heart and help you to see the good in all situations.

This year, as your mom, my goal is to slow down in my interactions with you. My hope is that this slowing will help me see you as you are, in every moment, as a special gift from God.

I pray that you will always be true to yourself, even if it isn't popular or appreciated by this world. Don't ever stop loving, praying and caring for people. This desire comes from the Holy Spirit in you. As a result, you will be an encouragement and blessing to so many.

Happy birthday, my sweet girl. I love you!

Love,
Mom