To My Darling Daughter on Her 7th Birthday

Dear Pumpkin Pie,

I cannot believe you are 7 years old today. The time certainly has flown by. It hasn't been very long that you've been in my life, but I cannot remember (and do not want to) what life was like without you. You are the best thing that has ever happened to me. And even when you drive me bonkers (something you love to do because, let's face it, you're 7), I still look at you and thank the Lord for giving me such a wonderful gift.

It was on this morning in 2000 that I woke up and realized it was the day I was going to meet you finally. For several months you had kept me awake with stubborn kicks to make yourself more comfortable, get a little more room. (Nothing has changed in this respect. You are still stubborn. I'm sorry I passed that trait on to you.)

My life changed in the best way possible at 10:10 pm that night. You've kept me on my toes ever since. I feel so privileged to be given a front row seat in watching you grow up--seeing your first steps, hearing your first words, helping you write your first letters, sending you off to school, getting all the hugs when we reunite each afternoon.

I enjoy our evening reading times, being able to share my favorite books with you and listening as you read your favorite books to me--ALL ON YOUR OWN. I love being the recipient of all your beloved art (though I may eventually have to rent a storage space just to have enough room for all the drawings!).

During these 7 years, I've watched you develop your own personality, and I'm proud of the girl you've become. You are kind, talkative, big-hearted, generous, compassionate, so full of love, energetic, intelligent--a truly beautiful person inside and out.

You tell me often that you love me to infinity and beyond. Well, my darling daughter, I love you that much and more. You truly are a blessing from above. I am proud to be your mother.

Happy birthday, Sweetheart,
Love,
Mommy

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I've been waiting until this day to share some recent words of wisdom from my wise 7-year-old. (I still crack up laughing every time I remember these conversations. Thank goodness we both have a sense of humor.)

ME: I know you're up to something. I wasn't born yesterday.
THE GIRL: Yes, you were. You just took a short cut to being old.

ME: Do you really enjoy driving me up the wall?
THE GIRL: Yes, and soon you'll be on the ceiling.


Ah, the joys of motherhood!



**Photo Copyright 2007 Serena M. Agusto-Cox**