Dear Elli,
Today you are seven years old.
When I started writing these letters, you were only three. Back then, it seemed you would never grow up. Some days, I thought you would probably be three forever.
I thought you would never stop throwing yourself on the floor in fits of toddler rage inside Target. Never stop wetting the bed. Never give yourself a bath. Never read a book by yourself. I thought you would never stop needing me for everything.
But you did.
And now you're seven. You're a big kid. You can do all of the things you couldn't do back then. You can accomplish more than I ever imagined.
Seven seems so big to me. It hit me the other day that, in seven more years, you'll be in high school. And seven years after that, you'll be 21. Holy shit, time flies.
People used to tell me to cherish every moment when you were a baby, because I would miss those days as you grow older.
As I look back on the little years, I do cherish those memories. But those people were wrong about one thing. I don't miss you being a baby at all. Not even a little bit. Those days were really freaking hard. They were so worth it, but they were some of the most challenging days of my life.
I love these days so much more. I love watching you grow and learn. I love having conversations with you. I love answering your questions, but I love to ask you questions even more.
I love to watch the way your eyes narrow and your brow furrows in thought when I ask your opinion of something, and I love to hear your perspective of the world when you finally speak. And, more than anything, I love it when you say, "Mommy, can we talk tonight?"
We talk a lot together. That's my favorite part of being your mom. I love talking with you about anything and everything. We talk about school, politics, racism, music, North Korea, business policy, cuss words, friends and family, Adolph Hitler, aliens, soccer, pets, gay marriage, medical marijuana, God, terrorism, and sneakers. No topic is off limits. I try so hard to encourage you to think freely and without limits. To truly listen and consider the opinions of others. And finally, to share your own perspective.
You have more thought behind your opinions than many adults I know. And I'm so freaking proud of you for that.
You're an amazing seven year old, and I'm having so much fun being your mom. I cherish every moment of the last seven years, and I can't wait to witness all you'll accomplish in the future.
I love you, kid. Happy Birthday.
Mom
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