Happy Birthday, Gracen!

Our girl turns 12 today. The peace symbol cake has been made and enjoyed by a small group of her friends who gathered for a party on Monday since school was out.

Gifts have been opened except for a couple from us.

The flowers she picked out as table decorations still decorate the table—at least for a bit longer.

It's hard to believe that time has gone so fast. I always thought it was cliché until it actually started happening. Now it isn't so cliche. It goes in the very blink of eye.

I loved the little baby so small and sweet with a ready smile and sticky up hair.

I loved the toddler who would regularly put herself in the hall for time out because she had done what I told her not to and who always had a hug and an “I love nou” for us.

I loved the little girl who marched to her own beat and wore her Dorothy dress, complete with red shoes and a basket with a stuffed dog, everywhere.

I loved the little girl who was so eager to learn and loved to read.

I loved the child who would always, always find an animal of some kind to love on.

I love the young lady that is still all of these things only so much more. As her world grows, so does her heart. And as her mother, I get the privilege of being a part of it all.

You are loved beyond measure, Gracen.