Amelia has turned 12 today.
And we spent the day without her at the state track meet…and then she left and is spending the night with a friend.
This is how our life works sometimes…and typically it’s with Amelia. The good news is, we can spread out the birthday fun into tomorrow and Saturday. But the even better news is that Amelia is our truly “go with the flow” kid.
Thank heavens.
Amelia is our third girl. Our kiddo who can go with either the big kids, the little kids or, preferably, by herself. She is happy to figure things out for herself, like making her own birthday cake. Am I sending “bad mom” vibes? Yikes. Truly, she asked to do it herself. I promise.
So tonight, as my newly minted 12 year old hangs with her buddy, I am remembering holding that tiny, fuzzy haired baby. The one with bright eyes, long toes and two big sisters who couldn’t WAIT to meet her. I’m remembering the sweet and silly toddler who was so expressive and chatty…always singing or dancing or telling a story. Joe would hold her in his lap at night and talk about how special she was as his “last little girl.” Ha! I’m remembering the kindergarten cutie who was so helpful and gentle with our new twins. The same kid who loved to share a room with her two big sisters, “it’s like a sleepover, every NIGHT!” This same little girl is now the one begging to have her own room…just a few more years!
Dear Millie,
I love you so dearly. Your kind heart and funny disposition has made being your mom for a dozen years a delight. I know that today you’re so close to being a teenager, but in your sparkly eyes and wide grin, I still see my little blonde baby. Please continue to be helpful, but don’t grow up too fast.
I see a lot of big things in your future. Not just because you’re smart and driven, but because you have that ability to go with the flow. While your organizational skills (ahem…your birthday Pinterest Board) will serve you well, this ability to understand that life is not perfect, not planned is a skill that will serve you better than a perfectly placed journalism program at Syracuse (another Pinterest board). Remember that. Being flexible and reacting to the world around you with the kindness and humor you possess is more important than any best laid plan.
Dearest Millie, you will always be my dearest doll. Even though you didn’t keep your “littlest girl” status, you have stepped into the middle kid role perfectly.
We will continue the celebrations tomorrow with your cake…and Saturday…and maybe Sunday!
Love,
Mom