My darling Emmy Lou,
At least once a week, you tell me you want to be a baby again. I try and tell you all the great things about being a big kid, but you remain steadfast in your desire to be an infant. You want a pacifier, to babble incoherently and to be held often.
I have a confession. As much as I love seeing how you’ve grown and changed, there is a part of me that would love to return to some of those days, even if for just an hour or so. I’ve spent some time going back through photo albums, Facebook, Timehop and reflecting on the past seven years of your life. It’s so cliche, but it’s gone by so fast.
But I wouldn’t honestly trade any of it for those baby days. Every stage has brought different challenges and exciting developments.
You are a pure joy, my darling daughter and I don’t want you to ever forget that.
First grade has brought an awakening in you. In the past seven months, I’ve seen a development of sorts happening. You seem more secure in who you are . Your personality has unfolded like a blooming flower and it’s so lovely to see.
You are still reserved around other people and get anxious in uncomfortable situations. That’s okay. That’s who you are.
But you also have gotten more comfortable in voicing your thoughts and emotions, and I’m proud of you as I know it can be hard for you. Using our words doesn’t come natural for some, but you’re trying and I appreciate it.
It’s funny. As much as you are like me, singing, dancing, performing, you are also your own person and one I don’t always understand. But we’re a team. I’m your mama and I love you with all my heart.
You are currently obsessed with jumping rope, and are actually quite good at it. You love bunnies more than anything and are constantly disappointed when I tell you we aren’t getting one. You adore making slime and watching other people make slime on YouTube Kids. We have a collection of slime made with glue, marshmallows, sugar, shaving cream, Borax and more. You name it, we’ve tried it. You still really like science and enjoy making your own little experiments.
Barbies are a top toy…if not the only toy that you still play with. I get such a kick out of listening to the scenarios you and your friends come up with when you play.
Over the summer, you decided that dance wasn’t your thing anymore, so we signed up for a theater class. You loved it and SO DID I! I love that you’re interested in performing and I’m behind you every step of the way.
You’re still my tender-hearted baby. Your feelings get hurt easily and you feel so much more than other people. Just like your mama. So now begins the balance of getting you to understand those feelings and how to be strong when the situation may call for it. It’s a lifelong process and one I’m still working to master.
Daddy and I love you so much. We’re so thankful that you’re part of our family and that we get the privilege to be your parents.
Fly high, my love! It’s gonna be a great year.
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