This was one of the five birthday cards Grace made for me. The other cards were an assortment: one had hand-drawn cartoons, one a list of states we’ve been too and the occasion for each, one had photographs attached, and one was a Mad Lib.
This was my favorite. These are only the top 5 of a list that was longer than that. I love them. You probably can’t see #5, but it is “Being so much fun” – which makes me happy because I worry, often, that I am no fun at all. Emotional, weepy, and over-sensitive? Yes. Fun? Not so much. It’s good to see that at least some of the time my daughter thinks I’m fun. I love everything about this card and will cherish it forever. I work and I spend a lot of time with Grace and Whit. I don’t do a lot else, but the truth is nothing matters as much as those two things. At least right now. And I’m grateful that my daughter, who I know is watching closely, appreciates both.
How gratifying to begin to see the world through your daughter’s eyes in this particular way. It’s always interesting to see what crystallizes for children, isn’t it? I, too, worry that I’m not a whole lot of fun. Of course Abra is only two, but I often feel like I’m a shrew who only ever says “no,” that I can always find a reason to NOT go outside to pick dandelions, or read a book for the thousandth time. Children know what really matters, don’t they? Thanks for the reminder.
Also, I love Mad Libs. Always have. My go-to noun is “toilet.” Whenever you use “toilet,” it’s always funny.
Happy, happy birthday to you darling! I know how much these sweet letters mean from our littles. You are clearly adored. Revel in it! Oh and treat your self to something fun to mark the moment. Xoxo
Never underestimate how closely your children watch you, and how important the little things you do are in shaping the humans they will be. Your daughter will learn from what you don’t do as much as what you do – your caring, your voice, your writing, all will shape her and Whit into fabulous people!
Beautiful! I’m so glad you were able to celebrate in all the important ways. Happy Birthday.
#3. My heart. My soul.
When they tell me how I’m blessing them, I am so humbled and grateful. What a joy to hear your own child love on you.