Happy Birthday HoneyGirl
And now you are ten. T E N. I have to say it a few times to let the reality sink in. You apparently dont feel any different to yesterday but, believe me, everything is different for me. The passage of time is marked before my very eyes.
When I look at you I see Grace. You know the story behind your being with us - you are my eternal reminder ... when my faith waivers in other areas, I just look at you.
It is with great pride I absorb every ounce of the young lady you are becoming. Sometimes I am not even sure how much I had to do with it - so *contained/together* are you! From a determined, rather withdrawn and fiercely independent 5yr old to this gregarious, fearless and utterly engaging tween.
I dont think anyone could have forseen what lay ahead - from your passion and talent for music to your sustained love for your Littlest Pet Shops and umpteen stuffed animals that STILL reside on your bed....the very same ones that used to reside in your cot!
Honey, you are a constantly and unassumingly surprising us with the evolution of your character and personality. If I have learnt anything in raising you so far it is that you should never box your kids (or allow anyone else to do so). You have shredded every stereotype we may have quietly held - you are outgrowing our wildest expectations for you and we are so very proud of the incredible person you are; from the way you care for your siblings to the way you sustain your friendships.
Happy birthday Honeygirl, I am excited (and somewhat nervous!) about the years before us...the next few are crucial in our relationship to help us weather those tumultuous teen years. I pray I can be what you NEED me to be. I love you; infinitely and more, always remember that.

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