Sweet Piper,
Happy 9th birthday to you!
I absolutely can not believe that you are 9 … and yes, I know every year that I say that I can’t believe you are another year older.
8 was such a fabulous year for you. I almost hate to see it end. You formed some great friendships and have grown up so much. It makes me so happy to see how you love your best friends. You share in each others joy and sadness with full support. It’s a trait that is going to serve you well past age 9.
You are independent, yet still happy to have my help. I’m sure that most of the time you are just taking my offer of help for my sake, not because you need it. I appreciate that. You are certainly my buddy. If we are home, you are most likely right at my side. This won’t last much longer and I know that. But, boy, am I savoring it now!
You are my little list maker. It makes my heart happy that you want to be so on top of things. You always want to know your schedule, what is expected of you, and anything else that can be put into a list. Finding your little pieces of paper around the house with various “to do’s” makes my heart smile.
You have found your passion in dance. There’s absolutely no denying that. Later you’ll learn that it takes many people a lifetime to find a passion €“ you’re so lucky. Seeing the amount that you’ve improved and grown over the past year is just amazing. I’m so proud of you. (PS – I love the way you bite the side of your mouth when you are really trying to apply your corrections. And, I love that as your mom, I’m probably the only person that’s ever noticed that you do that.)
As much as I hate to admit that you are getting older, I love this new phase of being your mom. I enjoy talking with you; laughing with you; sharing funny stories and inside jokes with you. You are so much fun. And, so quick-witted. You crack me up.
Happy birthday, baby girl €“ my curly girly. Thank you for the joy that you bring to all of us. There is no one in this world like you €“ I’m absolutely sure of that!
I love you,
Mom
PS – I hope you get a rainbow loom. [fingers crossed]
