To Addy at Eight

Dear Addy,

It is crazy to see how you've grown from the fat-cheeked little angel with golden curls that changed my world forever, to the vision of loveliness and sweetness you're so quickly becoming.  Like the song I so often sing you as you go to bed, every time I turn around it's like these precious years just melt away! I love that you sometimes seem to regret the forward march of you and your friends into the awkward world of tweenagerhood as much as I do.  You wisely embrace the positive elements of independence, responsibility, and awareness of the world, while leaving most of the silly extras like fashion and fluff to your friends.Your gentleness, generous spirit, wisdom, and conviction change every one of us a little bit for the better every single day.  I truly couldn't ask for a more wonderful daughter!

There are so many things we adore about you right now!  These are just a handful of them.

• You're so happy and easy-going in our family, always looking for a way to help anyone who has hurt feelings or needs an extra hug.
• I love that you're not rushed about growing up.  Though you've given up your attachment to some favorite PBS shows and toys that you've outgrown, you don't feel compelled to disown and make fun of them (like some other growing-up kids in this family!).  You're always good for a few rounds of Curious George with your siblings.
• When you get sassy or rude (it happens), you are always quick to apologize with a note (usually illustrated) and a hug.
• There's no rush into the fashion world for my Addy.  You're perfectly content in a comfy pair of jeans, a T-shirt (with a few sparkles), and with your hair hanging loose around your  shoulders.  While I wouldn't mind braiding those lovely golden locks a little more often, I love that you're so comfortable in your own skin and so peacefully self-assured.
• You are responsible with your school-work.  There's never a question of who should remind you to get your assignment notebook signed--you unfailingly bring it to me at each night or before school.  You do your own homework and ask me for help when you need it.
• Your creativity and cute ideas bring a bit of fun to everyone in the family.  Sera looks forward to the awesome "girl club" you have created for her at bedtime, and Emerson loves the things you teach him in "school."  I love your fantastic muffin-baking and the cool crafts you create.  Thank you for all the wonderful ideas you share with us all!
• You are wise and thoughtful beyond your years, whether with adults or your siblings and friends.
• You do the right thing.  There's never a question.  If a situation comes up that needs someone to make a stand for the right, you are the girl to do it.  Your friends and siblings are lucky to have such a stalwart example.
• I especially appreaciate your developing awareness of the world.  At a young age you are developing an understanding of the needs and complexities of the world and already looking for ways to do small things to help others.  They do make a difference!

Darling Addy, you are so easy to do fun things for, because you are so easy to love!  Though a part of me would love to freeze time and just keep you right here for a little longer, I have to admit that it is pretty exciting to see you grow old enough to scatter your rays sunshine into more diverse places. We consider ourselves lucky every day to be your parents and family.  You add dimension and happiness to our lives and we all just love you to pieces! 

Love,
Mom