10

Happy birthday, my sweet girl. I can hardly believe that you are 10 years old. I remember when I found out you were a girl in the delivery room. The doctor was placing bets with the nurses about whether you were a girl or boy. You came out and all I could say was "I wanted a girl, I wanted a girl" to whoever would pass by. They all looked at me and said, "we know, lady".

Our first few weeks went by in a blur. I know we both slept a lot and I think I cried a lot too. I do remember just sitting and holding you in my arms for hours and hours. I hardly did anything except look at you, my perfect little doll. 

You grew up a bit and became more independent. Around age two, your favourite phrase was "I do it" for anything. It was frustrating but I knew you'd never have problems speaking your mind. You still like to do stuff for yourself, but it's always more fun when we work together, right?

We married Daddy when you were four. You were our flower girl and held your arms up to daddy to be picked up midway through the ceremony. We have a wonderful picture with daddy and I kissing, and you also making a kissy face at us. Dad and I went on our honeymoon for 2 weeks and you stayed with grandma and grandpa. We missed you so much, but when we called you, you didn't feel like talking. You were "busy" watching cartoons, I think.

At age six, we went to Disneyland for the SECOND time, you lucky girl. We found out you were a dare devil and preferred to go on the roller coaster instead of the merry-go-round. Your favourite ride was the "Tower of Terror" and it's still your favourite. We finally convinced daddy to go on it with us last year, so now we can all have fun together. I can't wait to try new roller coasters with you, especially if you will still hold my hand.

We went on our first long hike when you were eight. I think we hiked 12 kilometers. You were so tired at the end, but your strong little legs held out. I think all the figure skating helps. We've got to try some new hikes this summer when we go camping.

And now you are 10! I'm so glad you loved your party. I had fun planning it with you and daddy, but it was even better watching you spend time with all your friends. Everyone just loves you so much. You make the world brighter with your smile. I especially like hearing you laugh and make jokes with your girlfriends.

Your dad and I are so proud to have such an amazing, kind little girl in our lives. We've enjoyed watching you grow from a little baby to a willful toddler to a lovely young lady. We can't wait to see the person you become in the next ten years. We know it will be a wonderful adventure.

Have a great birthday, little darling. We love you so much.

Love, 

Mommy