My heart burst yesterday…..with joy and with so much love.

My darling daughter turned 13.  It seems like just yesterday that this little pink peanut was carefully placed into my arms.  I remember so clearly whispering, “I am so glad to meet you.  I wanted to be the first to say, ‘I love you.’”  At that moment, I became what I had lost just the year before….. a mother.

Many times, I have looked over at her and have been amazed at how she has grown…. anyone out there feel like you look at your child and realize they had grown a few inches since the night before?? She is no longer the little tot that doted along behind me singing her ABC’s carrying her baby doll.  She has grown into the most beautiful young lady with such a richly old soul.  Her smile is so infectious. Her remarkable strength carries her head high.  And her love is so sincere and truly heart-felt.   AND don’t get me started on her beauty!!!  It just radiates from her…… definitely a jewel in God’s eye.

Yesterday, we celebrated her milestone with an intimate tea.  ”We” are the women in her life…. family members, mothers of best friends, co-workers (Humane Society Staff –where she volunteers), and church leaders.  There were 15 women surrounding her with their love and welcoming her into “teen-hood.”  Surprisingly I discovered something so admirable about my 13yo.   She hasn’t only touched my life but those who were there.  In her own special, “you”-nique, way she has left an undeniable, loving, impression upon these women….humbling for me as a mother to hear…..

At one point during the tea, I pointed out that she comes from a long line of very strong, faithful women.  I had purposefully decorated two tables with mementos of her heritage.  As I called each “grandmother’s” or “aunt’s” name, I imagined each soul gathering together to look down from the clouds of heaven to partake in the celebration tea.  Each woman,graced in appearance, to shower her with their love from heaven above….just as guardian angels do…..

My darling daughter…..she is so precious to be…… she can only be a gift from God, Himself…..to be this special in so many eyes……

Happy Birthday, Sweetheart.  I love you!!

God Bless……

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