My Dear Zoey

My Dear Zoey,

I sometimes hear people's stories about how their first born came into their life and something completely changed inside and their world changed forever. It wasn't exactly like that for me. Although I didn't have any real idea how much work a baby was, it wasn't a hard change for me to imagine you in my world. It just always seemed that it was turning out as it should.

The thing that did change, however, was that I now had my heart outside my body. And that is not something that I think I will ever get used to.  I will take it, though.  Because the worry, the aching love, the vulnerability that comes with the exposed heart... it is so worth having you in our lives.  We are so blessed by you, sweet girl. Your great laugh lightens up our days. Your perspective shows us a different view. Your innocence keeps us fresh. Your love melts our hearts and home.

You are still feisty, argumentative, fiercely independent, kind, loving, huggable, and so very sweet. You are a perfect big sister. You are a great playmate and helper. We can ask lots of you now and know that you will do the job or task successfully. We are so very proud of you.

And, in the past month or so, something has changed. It is subtle. But it is there. You have grown and matured a little. I would dare to even say that you have been filled with a sort of grace that I can't put into words. Just one step further in the path of the lady you will become. I can look at you now after something has happened (funny, silly, weird, it doesn't matter) and you understand! I think with Max entering kindergarten, I have really had the thought of you two growing up and not wanting it to happen so quickly on the forefront of my mind. And yet this leap happened in the mix of it all! However, it is a neat thing to see and be a part of. You are a perfect mix, at this age, of innocence and awareness of the world that allows us to share things with you and talk with you. Sometimes you are more than eager to be included in all conversations, and we know that is just you finding your place in the world, gathering up all the knowlege you can. Again, it is just another aspect that is exciting to watch develop, be a part of, and even steer the direction at times.




Eight is great! And I am thrilled for you and your year ahead. We love you, Zoey.

Love your heart,
love your smile,
love your laugh,
love your freckles,
love your determination,
love your spunk,
love your craftiness,
love
every
little
bit...

God Bless You!