My dear little Iris,
Today you are five years old. Last night after your birthday party you were asking me how old I will be when you are 16. I don't want to think about that! In reality, I know you will be 16 before I know it. You already exhibit some traits I thought I wouldn't have to face for another 10 years or so!
You have changed so much over the past year. I am pretty sure you've grown at least a foot taller. You are more confident and outspoken. The glimpses of the woman you might become show through more and more each day. And this year you will be starting kindergarten.
Real school. You have no idea how terrified and excited this makes me.
You are starting to feel the full effect of having a little brother these days, and I know it's really hard on you. He knows just how to push your buttons. I wish there was some easy solution so I could help you, but you will learn. There are moments when you both are so affectionate and loving, but those moments collide with explosions of annoyance and hurt feelings and boo-boos and lots and lots of tears. I know it's hard for you to understand right now, but as your Mommy it breaks my heart when you cry because he hurts your feelings. I hope learning what to do in those situations will make you stronger.
Despite how much you have changed, you are still very much the same little girl I brought home from the hospital. You have always been so emotionally driven. You are sensitive, loving, affectionate, silly, and imaginative. You challenge me. You help smooth out my rough edges and make me a better person. Best of all, you forgive me over and over again for my mistakes and still believe I am the best Mommy in the world. And for that I thank God every day. My life means so much more just by having you in it. I love you. Happy Birthday!
Love,
Mommy
Beautiful!
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