To my daughter

Yesterday was Danika's 6th birthday.

We had our first party at the new house to celebrate and fun was had by all!  There were kids laughing and giggling and screaming and running around.  There were enough chairs at tables for the adults to sit and chat while snacking.  The party was a success and went way better than I expected . . . kind of like how having a daughter has been.

I've said it many times before but I was NOT excited about having a daughter.  Growing up I wanted a boy first and then a girl - probably because I had always wished I'd had an older brother - but when that wish came true, I panicked.

My son was sooo easy.  I knew all there was to know about baby boys and was nervous to "make the switch" to baby girl.  It took a little bit of getting use to but the pink won me over.  Never one of my favorite colors, pink became the only thing I wanted to wear and the only color clothes I wanted to put my baby girl in.

6 years later she is still wearing a lot of pink (it is her favorite color) and I couldn't imagine life without her.  There came a brief moment yesterday, when Jerry decided to double check with me how old she was, that I thought about all of the mothers who lost their 6 year olds right before Christmas.  I teared up and gave her a big squeeze.  My heart broke a tiny bit for them and I thanked God again for my blessings.

Danika,

You are full of heart and one of the sweetest little ones I know.  I worry because you are so sensitive and let so many little things bother you.  I know that you are a lot tougher than anyone gives you credit for, though.  I was more upset than you were when you had to get that IV put in at the hospital when you had your breathing episode.  I was more nervous and upset when you got your tubes put in your ears.  You are so brave it amazes me.

You are also SO smart!  I knew that Nate was smart because he was always showing me but you surprised me and I'm so impressed with how well you are doing in school.

I love you.  I wish I could freeze time and keep you 6 forever but I know that next year your birthday will also come and I'm sure it will still be full of Barbies and music and fun.  But - you will be a little bit taller and a little bit smarter . . . and I'll be thinking about the day you came into this world screaming and curling your tongue (which totally amazed Grammie).  No matter what, though, you will always be my little girl and I will ALWAYS be happy you are part of our family.

Love,
Your Mom