another turn around the sun

Sweet Lala Bug,

You are ending and beginning another turn around the sun tonight. As I feel, each and every birthday, this past year has passed by in a blink. Even you have commented on how quickly it has gone. Despite feeling fast, Lala bug, you have changed so much. You have grown physically, just as predicted. You are taller, near my chin, and your body is changing. I know, as with 9, this birthday, is a hard one for you. You are reluctant about growing older. You are often wise beyond your years...there is something absolutely magical about childhood. Have no fear, sweet cheeks...11 is still a child. You have time.

This has been a year of learnings and realizations that have tugged away a bit of wonder, brought you closer to earth, yet not stripped you of your spirit. That growth brought some grief to both of us, and even some knowing to Little Brown Mouse, but not all is lost. This year has been one of strength...of spirit and body. You are so strong, brave, and so much more confident, embracing and falling in love with ballet and soccer and reaching new levels with swimming.

Right now, you love ballet, you made it to level 5 lap swim, you are teaching me tricks to improve my strokes, your favorite colors are orange and yellow, you can get lost in a book or knitting. The last thing you knit was a pair of slippers (which you decided was below your skill level. I agree). You still have such a love for most things playful (your doll, doll carrier, Eeyore, Legos, and most things sensory related). You enjoy more imaginary play now and you really do like your independent, quiet time.

Sweet girl, you are teaching me a lot right now about connection, quiet, patience, holding tight, and letting go. It is such a gift to be your mamma. Happy happy birthday.

With so much love and joy in my heart, Mamma.