Happy Birthday to our Wonderful Girl

Dear Aria - you have just turned 7. WOW! It's hard to believe it's been so long since you were born. Life is so different and so the same and so wonderful with you in it. It feels like you have been here forever, and it seems so fast I can't believe you're already 7. You are growing into a wonderful, smart, thoughtful, considerate and creative girl. You are amazing at reading (chapter books, already!! I can hardly believe it), and the pictures you draw are so unique and beautiful. I love that you wear socks that don't match on purpose - it's important to always remember to keep little bits of fun in your life.

Sometimes the world gets hard, and I know that this year has not been the easiest for you. As Julian gets busier we have less time to spend with you, and when I am in school, you have had to be very flexible with going to so many people's houses, and not having me around on Saturdays and with me doing homework and being so tired at nights. It's hard sometimes, but sometimes, little things like wearing silly socks helps make a day a little bit better, and sometimes, that's just what you need.

I want you to know that whether the world is hard, or whether the day is easy, I LOVE YOU. You are my BEST and I hope that we can remember to find the little moments to enjoy each other and share those wonderful hugs. You are so special, and I know that God has some wonderful things planned for you before this year is over - we'll just have to see what they are.

This little video is so much of who you were this year at 6 - with donut pants and polka dot socks dancing around my classroom and making friends with my students. Never lose your joy about life.

I love you SO MUCH!
xo xo xo xo xo xo xo
Mommy.