Happy 6th Birthday Mason

She makes me want to wear a cape, to sweep her away from any tough situation, to wrap her in my arms and keep her safe. Everyday.

Tomorrow, she will turn six. It sounds so cliché to say the last 2,190 days have been blinked away, but it most definitely feels as though they have. I blinked and she was born. I blinked and she could walk. I turned around to cook dinner and she was talking. I stopped for 15 minutes to have another baby and she could sing, turn a cartwheel and do karate. I ran to the grocery store and she’s halfway through kindergarten.

 My Sweet Girl Mason, When you were born, I was so taken by your dark hair and those gigantic blue eyes, I couldn’t bear to look away. I forced myself to let other people hold you. You and your sister made January 30, 2007 one of the absolute greatest days of my life.

I now find myself having a similar experience. While you have grown from a helpless infant to an “I can do it” toddler to the independent little treasure you are now, I have often held my breath, hoping I would know when to hold your hand and when to stand behind you with a little push.

When I look into your eyes, I see possibilities. You truly believe ANYTHING can happen. And that is magic…. The kind of magic I will bottle and do my best to sprinkle over you as you sleep each and every night. You can’t put a price on that kind of faith in the world. During this last year – I have seen the most significant changes in you – more than walking, more than talking… As these are tremendous milestones, they seem rooted in the physical. What I am witnessing now is the growth of your mind, of your heart. You are learning compassion and empathy. You are learning to give, to hurt, to be you.

I am so incredibly proud of the little girl who couldn’t come up with what she wanted for her birthday – who more than presents, just wanted a party for all of her friends. A party where you could sing and dance and twirl! I am in awe of the sweet girl, once so timid, who made a huge birthday invite list – unwilling to leave anyone out and who actually took charge and made sure all her friends were OK, rather than waiting for someone else to step up. You are this beautiful little soul. From you I have learned patience, I have experienced family, and I have evolved. I am a better person for having you in my life.

 Happy, Happy Birthday Baby Girl…wishing you a million days that reflect the possibilities you see. I love you with all my heart. Love, Mommy