Double Digits

Yes, today we have reached double digits in the age of one of my children.

Kayla has reached her first decade. That magical age when you can say you're TEN! and it sounds so much older. Is this the official age of the 'tween'? Do I really have a 'tween' now?

Ten pictures from Kayla's first year ... along with hopes, dreams, and wishes.

 I don't know what the future holds, but I hope it's bright and full of adventure.

I hope you know how very much you are loved by your family and feel their presence surrounding you ... even those family members who are no longer with us.

I hope you forgive me for my faults and mistakes that I have made, and will make, as a mother. Parenting is hard and it's a constant and changing learning experience. But I wish for you to know that I'm always trying my best and how very much I love you.

I hope you know you will always be the apple in your dad's eye and realize how much he loves you and will always protect 'his baby girl.'

I dream that you will find your passion in something you love and you will pursue it with all of your heart.

I hope you grow up with a positive self-awareness and acceptance about who you are and love yourself. 

I dream that you will be an outgoing self-advocate, speaking up for yourself and others. I dream that you will be self-confident, brave, kind, happy, and caring.

I hope that along the way you will be surrounded by true friends who will help you grow, and guide you. I dream that you will find acceptance amongst your peers.

I wish for you to grow up not knowing hate, or ugliness, or prejudices, or discrimination. That is probably unlikely though. You will encounter difficult situations and people. That's part of life. But I wish for you to handle adversity with your shoulders back, head high, and a smile on your face.

My dream is that you will follow your dreams and that we can help you be successful in your endeavours. My dream is that you will be happy in life and enjoy all life has to offer. I hope you reach for the moon, because even if you miss, you will still be amongst the stars.

 Happy birthday my beautiful ten year old!