My sweet baby girl is 8 years old!

Time is totally flying, and I am loving the girl you are becoming. While still a bit shy, when you are in a comfortable situation you are really coming into your own. You have SUCH a personality!

I’m really proud of how you’ve overcome some of your fears this year. We’ve worked hard on articulating our emotions and using our words to explain things. It’s hard for mommy and daddy too, so seeing you try so hard is amazing.

This past year introduced you to piano. Your father and I adore hearing you play. It’s amazing how quickly you pick up the notes and can plunk out some chords by ear. Everyone in the family enjoyed your first recital.

You also hesitantly joined me in Theater Club at school and you are a natural, for sure! Your great-grandmother would be so incredibly proud to see you act out characters on stage. I can’t wait to see you in the performance next month.

I think it will be our last year of dance. We stuck with jazz, but your heart just isn’t in it. And let’s be honest, I sure don’t want to drag you kicking and screaming to class each week.

It’s been a joy to watch your relationship with the neighborhood girls blossom. On the weekends, you’re constantly asking who can play and we’ve had many (MANY) jars full of slime made in our kitchen. I’m thankful you have such wonderful friends.

Who knows what 9 will bring us? I anticipate a lot of laughter and a sprinkle of sass.

We love you, sweet girl. Happy Birthday!