Today...

Today you are seven...

-although, you wish it was eight... you didn't even want seven candles on your cake until the very last moment! You just don't like being the youngest in your class. But we are very proud of you and how hard you work.

Today you are seven...

-and so independent, both with your actions and ideas. It is fun to watch you grow, in mind and spirit.

Today you are seven...

-and such the individualist. When it comes down to it, you don't always follow the crowd... you just do exactly what you want to and we love you for it. You wear what you want to wear and do what you want to do. You wanted to decorate your own cake and proudly showed it off!

Today you are seven...

-and really beginning to understand that their are evils in the world and sad things too. But because you are seven, you still have the optimism of a child who can turn any dark cloud into sunshine.

Today you are seven...

-and responsible. You love your little jobs and take pride in what you do.

Today you are seven...

-and continuing to really express yourself through your words... both writing and talking. It is so fascinating to see the world through your eyes and share it with such an articulate girl.

Today you are seven...

-and just like when your were six, or five, or even one... you are feisty, and on the move! You run fast on the soccer field and play with fire that I don't think I ever even had (that must come from your daddy)! It is a joy to watch and cheer and hear others cheer your name as well.

Today you are seven...

-and creative and fun. You write songs and poems and help me create things to sew. You love crafts and dogs the most!

Today you are seven...

-and as sweet as can be. You are a great big sister. Patient and kind and most of the time willing to play exactly to Max's level.

Today you are seven...

-and we still think you will be a lawyer. Always ready to fight the good fight against injustice or have the last word.

Today you are seven...

-and we love you with a love so deep that it aches if we dwell on it too much.

Today you are seven...

-and Buford is six. And you have "loved off" all his fur. And you still sleep with him every single night.

Today you are seven...

-and adventurous. You try new foods and new adventures whenever the opportunity comes up.

Today you are seven...

-and really funny. You don't miss a beat with jokes! You even get "puns" and make up your own. You are clever and have such a loud, infectious laugh, that we can't help giggle every time we hear it. Watching your sense of humor emerge has been one of my favorite things of watching you grow!

Today you are seven...

-and we are blessed to have you as our daughter. In many ways, you were not how I imagined when looking through my rose-colored glasses before you were born. However, because of you, we have learned so much, grown some too, and strive to be better each day.

Today you are seven...

-and sometimes we get glimpses of seventeen. The way you are sitting or a facial expression can speed up time for just an instant and I hold my breath, and am thankful that... Today you are seven!

God Bless you, Sweet Zoey. Today on your birthday and every day!! We love you.