Some days it's just so overwhelming. I think, maybe it would easier if you were still that little portable baby. The one I could pick up and carry and keep safely right by my heart. I love watching you grow and change. I am so grateful to have a ring side seat into your sweet little self. But there is SO much going by too quickly, and it's often hard to keep up. I blinked and now you're 9! I can't imagine anything better in my life before you. I can't imagine anything more wonderful or heartbreaking than watching you grow up and fly away. Does every parent want to freeze time? I've always wished that I could have a do-over of the sleep deprived years. It wasn't fair, with everything being so out of focus. I want to see all of the "firsts" again, with clearer eyes. I want the stress of being a first-time mommy to be erased so I can be in each and every moment. Memorize it. I want to spend every single minute of every single day playing with you and listening to you laughing. I want to keep you safe from anyone who dares to break your heart, make you feel inadequate or tells you you are anything other than the amazing child you are. I want to skip all the busyness and just be. In this ninth year of your life, I am so grateful that you are mine. That I was lucky enough to be given this gift. And my prayer is that each day you will know how very much you are loved. Happy 9th Birthday, Ruby Jane ♥
