Six years ago my world was turned upside down, and it’s never been the same. Nor would I want it to be. In fact, I can barely remember what life was like before Little Miss Sunshine was born. She bounced into our room a little after 6 a.m. this morning (usually I’m dragging her out of bed at 7). She hopped on our bed exclaiming “I’m 6! I’m 6! It’s my birthday! Today is the perfect day to have a birthday! I’ll get to be in the front of the line at school! I get to take treats!! It’s my birthday!!!!!”
We let her open her gifts this morning because we have special plans for tonight. I drove her to school instead of putting her on the bus to give her an extra half hour to play. Her favorite gift so far? The little sewing machine from us and the sewing box and supplies from Grandma and Grandpa. Before we left for school, she came up to me again to thank me for the sewing machine and asked, “Will you share your sewing table with me so I have a place to sew?” I smiled and said, “I would, but you need a table your size so your feet can touch the floor and work the pedal. We’ll take your birthday money and find one this weekend.” She can hardly wait to start learning.
She’s growing up so quickly into a mature, compassionate young girl. At Christmas time she asked if we could do bedtime prayers kneeling in front of the little Christmas tree in her room. She prayed every night for the boys and girls who don’t have moms and dads or warm clothes or enough food. She asked God to take care of them and help us know how to help them. Most days, I feel completely unqualified to be her mom and at a loss to know how to guide her. I’m so thankful God walks with us each step of this parenting journey!
And so, Little Miss, I love you with all my heart (or with my whole body as you say), so much I can’t even explain it. Happy 6th birthday my Sunshine!
Oh…you made me tear up!
Happy 6th Birthday!!! You are such a bleassing to all who know and love you.
Oh gosh Amelia. I have so many memories from when she was born… I can’t believe six years have passed. This was so sweet and I too teared up reading it. The days we have with our kids are so fleeting. You are qualified to be her mom b/c you are an extraordinary woman of God. Happy Birthday to Little Miss. And an extra dose of strength thrown in for you and Ked! xoxo
Aw, Susie!!
Casey, yours too is just growing so so fast!! Both such sweeties!
Paige, you’re so sweet! I’m so excited you are having a girl too. Praying for safe and healthy delivery so soon!!
Sighhhhhhhhh…I can’t believe how quickly time is flying! I remember that little baby (and how tiny she looked ‘sitting’ next to my little guy). She is a wonderful, beautiful, amazing little girl and we love her and you guys so much. Hugs and love to Little Miss Sunshine!
oh I know Susan! My goodness, I still have that picture somewhere of infant Sunshine looking so teeny next to your lil man! We miss you all!!